Restrictions on Mirwaiz Umer Farooq’s religious duties: HC gives J&K Govt final chance

The High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh has given a 'last and final opportunity' to the J&K administration in response to the writ petition filed by Mirwaiz Umer Farooq, the religious leader and chairman of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference, against restrictions imposed on him from performing his religious duties in Jamia Masjid.

After being absent from the mosque for nearly three months, Mirwaiz approached the court, challenging the constraints imposed on his activities. Justice Wasim Sadiq Nargal has granted the J&K administration a "last and final opportunity" to respond to the concerns raised by Mirwaiz in his petition, according to a report published in The Indian Express.

The court, in its recent ruling on February 19, expressed reluctance in granting another week's time to the Senior Additional Advocate General to respond to the petition, emphasizing that it would be the "last and final opportunity" for the Union Territory to present its arguments.

Mirwaiz's writ petition, filed before the court, sought directions from the authorities to refrain from creating impediments in his day-to-day life, including his free movement as a citizen and his ability to perform religious duties guaranteed to him under the Constitution.

The petition highlighted Mirwaiz's absence from leading Friday prayers at Jamia Masjid since October, despite being released from detention at his residence in September.

According to the petition, Mirwaiz argued that the restrictions imposed on him amounted to "illegal detention" and constituted discrimination, violating Article 14 of the Indian Constitution. He emphasized that such actions by the authorities are a deliberate attempt to undermine the religious sentiments of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Despite being allowed to travel with security on other days of the week and even undertaking a recent trip to Delhi, Mirwaiz lamented that he was not permitted to attend the important religious occasion of Shab-e-Miraj at Jamia Masjid.

He expressed concerns about potential further restrictions on his movement, especially with Ramadan approaching and daily prayers scheduled at the grand mosque, which he traditionally leads.

Mirwaiz's petition underscores a broader issue concerning religious freedom and individual liberties in the region. His case has drawn attention to the challenges faced by religious leaders and communities in exercising their rights in Jammu and Kashmir amid ongoing security measures and administrative controls.

Mirwaiz expressed frustration over the lack of response from the authorities despite repeated attempts by the mosque's management committee to engage with them. He highlighted his limited access to religious congregations and stressed the importance of addressing these issues through judicial intervention.