Mirwaiz Umar Farooq Detained for Fourth Consecutive Friday

On December 27th, Mirwaiz Muhammad Umar Farooq, was barred from leaving his house to lead prayer for the fourth consecutive Friday, a blatant abuse of power by the state administration.

On a day when thousands of devotees, braving harsh winter conditions, had gathered at the historic Jama Masjid to listen to the Mirwaiz’s sermon, the administration’s move not only hurt the sentiments of worshippers but also deepened the anguish of the region’s Muslim community.

“The frequent house arrest of the Mirwaiz, especially on Fridays, is a calculated attempt to silence his voice and deny the people their right to spiritual guidance,” the statement by Mirwaiz’s organization read. “This arbitrary action not only prevents him from fulfilling his religious and official responsibilities but also causes immense distress to the faithful across the valley.”

On early Friday morning, police vehicles were deployed outside the Mirwaiz’s residence, and he was informed that he would not be allowed to attend the Friday prayers or deliver his sermon at the central Jamia Masjid.