- Ban on Eid prayers at historic Eidgah in Srinagar
- Authorities’ concern: Anti-India protests prompt prayer restrictions
- Kashmiri organization condemns the decision, criticizes continued detention of religious leader
On Thursday, occupied Kashmir authorities halted prayers at the ancient Eidgah in Srinagar due to fears of anti-India riots.
According to a report in The Indian Express, the management committee of Srinagar’s Jamia Masjid said in a statement that authorities had prohibited Eidul Azha prayers at the central Eidgah.
The statement informed the public that authorities had informed Anjuman Auqaf Jama Masjid that Eid ul Adha prayers would not be permitted at the historic and central Eidgah in Srinagar on Thursday (June 29).
“The district administration informed Anjuman Auqaf officials of this decision this morning (Wednesday),” the statement continued.
According to The Indian Express, the administration worries that a large gathering could escalate to an anti-Indian procession.
The Auqaf also condemned the government’s ban on Eid prayers at Eidgah.
“Barring prayers at Eidgah, which is the central place designated for special community prayers, is extremely unfortunate and condemnable, hurting the sentiments of lakhs of Muslims in the valley and outside, and a poor reflection of the state of affairs in Jammu and Kashmir,” the Auqaf was quoted as saying in the report.
The Auqaf also criticised Mirwaiz Umar Farooq’s “continued detention” in the Indian Express.
Separately, the Kashmir Media Service reported that authorities had barricaded the main entrance to the Jamia Masjid in Srinagar. While large numbers of Indian troops, paramilitary forces, and police were spotted on roadways in Nowhatta. Also other parts of the city to quell pro-freedom demonstrations.
