On March 14, 2025, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq was again barred from leading Friday prayers at Srinagar’s Grand Mosque, a recurring restriction that has persisted since 2019. This pattern—house arrests without clear justification—disrupts a sacred tradition during Ramzan, disappointing thousands of devotees and raising valid concerns about religious freedom.
While security considerations are important, preventing a cleric from offering namaz without due process tests the limits of fairness. India’s Constitution and international norms affirm the right to worship, a principle that should guide actions in Kashmir. The elected government has voiced unease, yet the impasse continues under central authority.
It’s time for a balanced resolution. If risks exist, they should be addressed transparently through legal channels—not indefinite curbs. Kashmiris deserve to practice their faith freely. How long must this go on before dialogue prevails over restriction?
