Sat Mar 29 17:27:04 UTC 2025: **Kashmir Religious Leaders Protest Restrictions on Ramadan Prayers and Pro-Palestine Demonstrations**
Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir – March 29, 2025 – The Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU), an umbrella organization of religious groups in Jammu and Kashmir, strongly condemned the government’s restrictions on religious gatherings during Ramadan. The MMU specifically criticized the barring of special Ramadan prayers at the Jamia Masjid and the prevention of Shab-e-Qadr and Jumat-ul-Vida prayers at the same location. They also alleged that Chief Cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq was placed under house arrest.
This action follows the registration of cases against organizers and participants of a pro-Palestine procession in Sonpah village, with some facing charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) for displaying Hezbollah flags and raising slogans. Shia cleric Masoor Abbas Ansari questioned the application of UAPA to peaceful protesters, contrasting it with the permitted Quds rallies held elsewhere globally.
The MMU further voiced opposition to a proposed Waqf Amendment Bill, stating it jeopardizes Muslim community interests and institutions. National Conference MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi echoed these concerns, highlighting the closure of the Jama Masjid and referencing the ongoing resistance symbolized by posters demanding freedom for political prisoners. The situation underscores rising tensions between religious authorities and the administration in Jammu and Kashmir.
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