Why is Mirwaiz Umar Farooq Under House Arrest in Srinagar?
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Synopsis
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq's house arrest raises questions about freedom of speech and the remembrance of Kashmir's martyrs. Discover the historical significance of July 13 and the ongoing political tensions in Jammu and Kashmir. This article delves into the implications of restricting religious leaders and the impact on public memory in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Mirwaiz Umar Farooq faced house arrest to prevent his sermon about martyrs.
- July 13 is a significant day in Kashmir's history.
- The Union Home Ministry has banned the Awami Action Committee.
- Tensions in Kashmir have historical roots and ongoing implications.
- Security forces have reduced terrorism levels in the region.
Srinagar, July 11 (NationPress) Senior religious figure Mirwaiz Umar Farooq announced on Friday that the local authorities have restricted him from attending the Jama Masjid to present his weekly sermon.
“I have been forbidden to go to Jama Masjid today, placed under house arrest due to fears regarding the reference to the martyrs of July 13, 1931 in my sermon! The sacrifices made by these martyrs and all those who followed are deeply ingrained in the collective consciousness of Kashmir and cannot be erased by any restrictions or bans.”
He continued, “No nation in existence can disregard the ultimate sacrifice made by its martyrs in the fight against oppression and injustice. I urge the authorities to lift the restrictions and allow the public to peacefully pay tribute to the martyrs of July 13. If permitted, we intend to visit the martyrs' graveyard on July 13 after the Zuhr prayers to honor the esteemed martyrs,” Mirwaiz Umar stated on X.
Mirwaiz Umar was alluding to July 13, which was commemorated as 'Martyrs' Day' in J&K prior to the revocation of Article 370. This day is significant as it marks the anniversary of the deaths of protesters who stormed the Srinagar central jail in 1931 against the trial of Abul Qadeer, a Pathan servant of a British officer who had called upon the people to oppose the oppressive regime of Dogra Maharaja Hari Singh. Twenty-two protesters lost their lives when prison guards opened fire, and following India’s independence in 1947, this day was designated as Martyrs Day by the Jammu and Kashmir government.
The Union Home Ministry has classified the Awami Action Committee, led by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, as an unlawful organization inciting separatist sentiments in Kashmir.
The Awami Action Committee was established in 1963 by the late Mirwaiz Maulana Mohammad Farooq, Mirwaiz Umar's father, amid the holy Relic agitation in Kashmir. Tragically, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq was assassinated by terrorists at his residence in Nigeen in 1990.
Following the revocation of Article 370 and the division of J&K into two Union Territories, law enforcement became the direct responsibility of the Union Home Ministry.
Almost all separatist leaders have been detained and are under investigation for allegedly inciting terrorism through their speeches and receiving funding to sustain terrorism from outside the nation. This includes groups like the JKLF, Hizbul Mujahideen, Jamaat-e-Islami, Awami League, and others.
Since August 5, 2019, there have been no anti-India demonstrations, stone-pelting incidents, or public property vandalism in Kashmir.
While terrorism remains a concern in J&K, its prevalence has significantly decreased, thanks to the efforts of security forces and local police, allowing residents to continue their daily lives without disruptions from protests, curfews, or bandhs initiated by separatists.
Point of View
I believe it's crucial to uphold the principles of free speech and remembrance in discussions about Kashmir. The restrictions imposed on Mirwaiz Umar Farooq highlight ongoing political challenges that threaten the region's rich historical narrative. We must advocate for peaceful dialogue and recognition of the past to foster a more inclusive future.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to Mirwaiz Umar Farooq's house arrest?
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq was placed under house arrest to prevent him from addressing the public about the martyrs of July 13, 1931, during his weekly sermon.
What is the significance of July 13 in Kashmir?
July 13 is observed as Martyrs' Day in Kashmir to commemorate the protesters who were killed in 1931 while opposing autocratic rule.
What actions have been taken against separatist leaders in Kashmir?
Following the abrogation of Article 370, many separatist leaders have been arrested for inciting terrorism and are under investigation.
How has the security situation changed in Kashmir since August 2019?
Since August 2019, there has been a significant reduction in anti-India protests and violence, allowing residents to go about their daily lives more peacefully.
What is the historical context of the Awami Action Committee?
The Awami Action Committee was established in 1963 during the holy Relic agitation and is led by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, whose father founded the organization.
