Amidst the festive air that accompanies Eid-ul-Fitr, marking the conclusion of Ramadan, a solemn ambiance envelopes Srinagar. The timeless Jamia Masjid in Srinagar has, for the fifth consecutive year, remained tranquil, devoid of the customary mass congregations that typically grace this auspicious day.
The absence of Eid prayers at Jamia Masjid this year, coupled with the denial of Shab-e-Qadar and Jummat-ul-Vida prayers, underscores an enduring discord between the mosque’s governing body and the authorities. The Anjuman Auqaf Jama Masjid in Srinagar, entrusted with the management of the mosque, contends that administrative directives have impeded their endeavors to conduct prayers at the stipulated times.
“Once again, the administration obstructed our plans to hold prayers at the designated 9:30 am slot,” lamented a member of the management committee. “Despite our entreaties and appeals, they rebuffed our requests, resulting in the postponement of the mosque’s historic prayers. Following the fajr namaz, police personnel sealed the masjid’s gates, and Mirwaiz Umar Farooq was placed under house arrest.”
Earlier declarations by the Anjuman had assured Eid prayers at 9:30 am, with the esteemed Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir, Dr. Moulvi Muhammad Umar Farooq, slated to deliver the sermon at 8:30 am. However, bureaucratic obstacles persisted, rendering the mosque silent on this momentous occasion.
While Jamia Masjid remained devoid of congregational prayers, other local mosques and masjids throughout Jammu and Kashmir celebrated Eid-ul-Fitr without hindrance. Amidst sermons, exhortations, and resonant supplications, devotees fervently prayed for the tranquility, security, and prosperity of the Kashmir Valley.
Significantly, the largest Eid prayer gathering in the Kashmir Valley transpired at Dargah Hazratbal Srinagar. Eid-ul-Fitr, a significant Islamic festival observed globally, traditionally unites Muslims for special prayers, token exchanges, and festive feasts. It serves as an occasion for absolution, benevolence, and the strengthening of communal ties.