Kashmir Cleric Issues Powerful Plea: ‘Bar Hate Speech from Pulpits!’

Srinagar: Mirwaiz Umer Farooq has asked people to avoid listening to the people who are divisive and refuse them the mosque pulpits. He was speaking at Astaan Aliya Dastgeer Sahib in Srinagar uptown Sarai Payeen locality on Tuesday.

Mirwaiz urged for harmony and togetherness across all sects while condemning those who propagate hate. He announced the observance of Jumat-ul-Vida as Yaum-e-Dua (Day of Prayer) in Kashmir, with special congregations for repentance and forgiveness to be held at the historic Jamia Masjid after five years. He also revealed plans for a conference of all religious organizations after Eid-ul-Fitr to combat drug abuse in Jammu and Kashmir.

Mirwaiz expressed satisfaction over the planned activities for Eid ul Fitr, Shab-e-Qadr, and Jumat-ul-Vida, anticipating a large number of devotees from across Kashmir to participate. He stressed the importance of government support to ensure the smooth execution of these religious events, while pledging his organization’s commitment to a drug-free society.

Addressing the youth, Mirwaiz urged them to abstain from illicit activities and engage in charitable and religious endeavors. He announced plans to deliver a comprehensive sermon on drug addiction during Jumat-ul-Vida to raise awareness about social evils.