Mirwaiz Barred for Third Consecutive Friday From Jamia Masjid Prayer | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Mirwaiz Kashmir Molvi Muhammad Umar Farooq was on Friday barred for the third consecutive week from leading special prayers for rain and snow at Jamia Masjid Srinagar.

The Mirwaiz had announced special congregational prayers seeking rainfall and snowfall in view of the prolonged dry spell. However, authorities did not allow him to proceed to the Jamia Masjid, preventing him from leading the Friday prayers and collective supplications.

In a post on X, the Mirwaiz said that once again he was denied permission to go to the Jamia Masjid, describing the repeated restrictions as deeply distressing. He said it was extremely saddening that he could not lead the faithful in collective duā for rain and snow during the ongoing dry winter, adding that prayers remained a source of strength.

Another Friday, and once again authorities denied me permission to go to Jama Masjid. It is deeply saddening that I could not lead the faithful in collective Dua for rain and snow during this unusually dry winter. Our prayers remain our strength may Allah accept them. pic.twitter.com/mEZVhsQkSo

— Mirwaiz Umar Farooq (@MirwaizKashmir) January 9, 2026

Despite the restrictions, Imam e Hai of Jamia Masjid, Syed Ahmed Naqshbandi, led the special duā for rain and snow, which was attended by a large congregation. Addressing the worshippers, he urged people to turn to Allah with humility, repentance and increased supplication, seeking mercy and blessings as concerns grow over the continuing dry spell.

Syed Ahmed Naqshbandi also condemned the continued house arrest of the Mirwaiz, expressing anguish that even offering duā, which he described as a purely religious and humanitarian act, was leading to restrictions. He said the repeated curbs had deeply hurt the religious sentiments and conscience of the people.

Meanwhile, the Mirwaiz expressed deep sorrow over the demise of the wife of the late Mirwaiz Molana Yaseen Hamdani. He said that despite seeking permission, he was not allowed to attend her funeral. The Mirwaiz conveyed condolences to Molana Riyaz Hamdani and the bereaved family, and prayed for maghfirah for the departed soul and patience for the family.