Hurriyat Conference Chairman and Chief Cleric of Jammu and Kashmir Mirwaiz Umar Farooq. File
| Photo Credit: PTI
The caretakers of historic Jama Masjid in Srinagar on Tuesday (February 3, 2026) said the Jammu and Kashmir Police closed the gates of the mosque for special prayers on the occasion of Shab-e-Barat, when Muslims hold nightlong congregational prayers, and placed Kashmir’s chief cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq under house arrest.
A spokesman of the Anjuman Auqaf Jama Masjid said it was directed by the police to close the gates of Jama Masjid, Srinagar, as permission to observe Shab-e-Barat had been denied by the authorities at the mosque. “The Mr. Auqaf was asked to ensure that the premises remain closed for the night despite prior preparations for the sacred observance,” the spokesman said.
The Mr. Auqaf spokesman expressed deep regret that once again congregational prayers on an important religious occasion could not be held at Jama Masjid and that the Mirwaiz had been placed under house arrest.
“This continues a pattern since 2019 where major religious gatherings at the historic mosque are not allowed. This amounts to a blatant interference in the religious rights of the people,” the spokesman said.
‘Needs explanation’
Meanwhile, the Mirwaiz, in a post on X, said, “As mosques across the region light up in devotion on this sacred night, Jama Masjid Srinagar stays shut under watch. Yet another closure, and I remain detained at home. Shab-e-Barat joins a long list since 2019 when prayers at the Valley’s largest mosque have been stopped by force. No reason offered, just locked gates and silence. For those who beat the drums of ‘normalcy’ and ‘Naya Kashmir,’ this contrast needs an explanation.”
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah greeted people on the occasion. “I extend my heartfelt greetings to the people on the auspicious occasion of Shab-e-Barat. This sacred night is a time for prayer, repentance, and reflection. I pray for peace, harmony, and prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir, and for the well-being of all,” Mr. Abdullah said.
Published – February 03, 2026 10:04 pm IST
