Srinagar, July 11, KNT: Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, the chief cleric and Mirwaiz of Kashmir, was allegedly placed under house arrest on Friday, preventing him from offering congregational prayers at Srinagar’s historic Jamia Masjid, just two days before the observance of Martyrs’ Day on July 13.
Taking to social media platform X, Mirwaiz wrote: “Disallowed to go to Jama Masjid today, put under house arrest, fearing the mention of the martyrs of 13th July 1931 in my Friday sermon.”
According to Mirwaiz, authorities feared a reference to the 1931 martyrs, 22 Kashmiris who were killed by Dogra forces outside Srinagar Central Jail—prompting preemptive restrictions.
He condemned the action, calling it an infringement upon his religious responsibilities and a denial of the people’s right to remember their history.
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“The sacrifices of the martyrs of 13th July 1931, and all others who have lost their lives in Kashmir, are part of our collective memory. These cannot be erased through restrictions and bans,” he posted.
Mirwaiz maintained that no “living nation” could turn its back on such a legacy:
“No living nation can forget the supreme sacrifice of life of its martyrs against tyranny and injustice.”
The Mirwaiz expressed hope that traditional prayers and a visit to the Martyrs’ Graveyard at Naqshband Sahib would be allowed following Zuhr (afternoon) prayers on July 13, which marks the 93rd anniversary of the historical uprising.
The graveyard, located in the old city of Srinagar, is where the martyrs of 1931 are buried and remains a focal point of annual remembrance and reflection for many in Kashmir.
Reacting to the house arrest, MLA Zadibal and JKNC Chief Spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq strongly condemned the move, calling it “deeply unfortunate and unacceptable.”
“It’s deeply unfortunate and unacceptable that Mirwaiz Kashmir Umar Farooq Sahab has once again been detained at home and prevented from fulfilling his religious duties. Silencing a religious leader, especially a day before 13th July, dishonours not just his voice but the legacy of our martyrs.”
He further added: “July 13, 1931, was a turning point in Kashmir’s history—a brave stand against tyranny and injustice. No bans or restrictions can erase the memory of that sacrifice. Kashmir will always honour its martyrs with dignity, peace, and truth.”
