“What kind of normalcy is this?” IIOJK CM decries Jamia Masjid closure for Eid prayers
Srinagar: In Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has expressed deep anguish over the denial of permission for Eid prayers at the historic Jamia Masjid in Srinagar, asserting that such restrictions at the territory’s largest mosque raise serious questions about the “normalcy” claimed by Indian authorities. His remarks also underscore his helplessness regarding administrative control in IIOJK.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the IIOJK administration under the New Delhi-appointed Lieutenant Governor once again disallowed Eid prayers at the grand mosque, marking the eighth consecutive year of such restrictions. The gates of Jamia Masjid in the Nawhatta area were sealed early Saturday, with Indian forces deployed outside to prevent entry.
Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Omar Abdullah said he was “saddened” that worshippers were barred from offering prayers at the centuries-old mosque in the city centre. “Unfortunately, once again, Eid prayers have not been allowed in the historical Jamia Masjid of Srinagar. I feel very saddened by this,” he said.
He highlighted the disconnect between official claims and ground situation. “Security and law enforcement officials repeatedly say that the situation is normal. But what kind of normalcy is this? Eid prayers are not allowed in the largest mosque in Srinagar,” Omar Abdullah asked.
He expressed hope that the authorities would revisit such decisions. “I hope that such decisions will be changed and people will be allowed to offer their prayers freely,” he said.
The IIOJK CM also drew attention to the economic pressures on households, citing rising prices of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and other petroleum products as adding to the burden on Kashmiris.
