Shazia Shah
Srinagar, Feb 13, K Pen:Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has strongly criticized the security establishment’s decision to seal the historic Jamia Masjid in Srinagar on the occasion of Shab-e-Baraat, one of the holiest nights in the Islamic calendar.
Taking to social media, Abdullah expressed his disappointment, stating that the move reflects a “lack of confidence in the people” and questioned the rationale behind preventing devotees from offering prayers at the grand mosque.
“It is very unfortunate that the security establishment has taken the decision to seal the historic Jamia Masjid, Srinagar on one of the holiest nights in the Islamic calendar – #shabebaraat. This decision betrays a lack in confidence in the people & a lack of confidence in the system,” he posted on X (formerly Twitter).
The closure of Jamia Masjid on significant religious occasions has been a recurring issue, drawing widespread condemnation from religious and political leaders in Kashmir. While the authorities have not yet issued an official statement explaining the move, the decision has sparked discontent among worshippers, who view it as an unnecessary restriction on religious freedom.
Civil society groups and political leaders have urged the administration to reconsider such actions, emphasizing the need to respect religious sentiments and ensure that places of worship remain accessible to the public| Kashmir Pen
