The Anjuman Auqaf Jama Masjid (AAJM) has strongly criticised the house arrest of Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Umar Farooq, which prevented him from delivering the sermon and leading congregational prayers at the historic Jama Masjid in Srinagar on Friday.
In a statement, the AAJM described the restrictions placed on Mirwaiz as unwarranted, particularly during the sacred month of Ramzan. It said that preventing him from leaving his residence had caused disappointment among the large number of worshippers gathered at the mosque.
“Obstructing the Mirwaiz from carrying out his religious responsibilities at such an important time is deeply distressing for the community,” the AAJM said.
This house arrest follows the recent decision by the Ministry of Home Affairs to ban the Awami Action Committee (AAC), a socio-political and religious organisation led by Mirwaiz, under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) for five years.
Strongly condemn the ban on Awami Action Committee and declaring it an “Unlawful Association.” Formed by shaheed e Millat at the peak of holy relic (moi muqadas) agitation in 1964, it has unwaveringly stood by the people of J&K advocating their aspirations and rights through…
— Mirwaiz Umar Farooq (@MirwaizKashmir) March 11, 2025
The ban has sparked criticism from political and religious groups, who argue that the AAC has played a significant role in Kashmir’s social and religious affairs.
The matter was also raised in the Assembly by PDP MLA Waheed Parra, who urged the government to reconsider its stance.
The AAC, established by Mirwaiz’s father, the late Mirwaiz Molvi Farooq, has historically engaged in social and religious activities in Kashmir.
The AAJM has reiterated its demand for Mirwaiz Umar Farooq’s immediate release and the reinstatement of his right to address congregations at Jama Masjid. It labelled the restrictions on him as unjust and deeply concerning.
“The Jama Masjid is a revered place of worship where thousands gather every Friday for spiritual guidance and blessings,” the AAJM asserted. “Restricting the Mirwaiz from fulfilling his duties is profoundly distressing for the people.”
The organisation also encouraged worshippers to continue their prayers and supplications, seeking relief from such limitations.
Mirwaiz, who also leads a faction of the Hurriyat Conference, was among several political and religious figures placed under preventive detention following the abrogation of Article 370. Additionally, the Jama Masjid remained closed for weeks after the BJP revoked Jammu and Kashmir’s special status. Recently, he was granted permission to meet the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) in New Delhi regarding amendments to the Wakf Bill.
