Local authorities in Srinagar have once again denied permission for Eid prayers at the historic Jama Masjid in the old city, marking the sixth consecutive year of such restrictions, as per statement delivered by the Anjuman Auqaf Jama Masjid.

The Anjuman Auqaf Jama Masjid, the management body of the 14th-century mosque, stated that police personnel closed the gates of the Jama Masjid after Fajr prayers on Monday. They informed the Auqaf that Eid prayers, scheduled for 9:00 AM, would not be allowed at the mosque.

The management body further claimed that Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, who was slated to deliver the Eid sermon, has been placed under house arrest.

Authorities have barred Eid prayers at both Jama Masjid and Eidgah since 2019. The Mirwaiz expressed his disappointment over the decision, calling it a "distressing infringement" of Muslims' religious freedom.

"The consistent denial to hold congregational Eid prayers, especially during pivotal moments of spiritual reflection and communal worship, is not only deeply disrespectful but also exacerbates the sense of alienation and grievance among the people," he stated.

He also criticized the authorities for their claims of normalcy in Kashmir, pointing out that ongoing restrictions and the denial of religious practices underscore the actual state of affairs in the region.

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