Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Mar 15: Mirwaiz Umar Farooq led the Friday congregational prayers today at the historic Jamia Masjid during the month of Ramadan for the first time in the last five years.
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After the sermon, in his address to people, he demanded the release of political prisoners as a goodwill gesture and also lambasted the authorities for erratic power supply, especially during Iftar and Sehri. He noted that the power scenario has been worse this winter.
“They should listen to the voice of people’s conscience and unconditionally release thousands of Kashmiri political prisoners who are in jails in Jammu and Kashmir and all over India, as a goodwill gesture in Ramzan,” he appealed to the authorities.
“The condition of many prisoners who are in jails for years is very bad, causing great distress to people.”
Mirwaiz stated that it is incumbent upon authorities to address the issues of people, including the lack of electricity, which has increased hardships, especially during Ramzan, particularly for the poor who don’t have alternative means.
“The authorities should address this issue at the earliest, as they have the means to do so, noting that the condition of roads is pathetic, making commuting a nightmare.”
Mirwaiz appealed to all sects and organizations-religious, social, or political-to rise above personal and sectarian interests and ensure unity and brotherhood among the people of Jammu and Kashmir to preserve and protect its collective identity.
“The best way to ensure collectivism is by following basic human, moral, and religious principles and values; otherwise, infighting and one-upmanship will make us perish,” he said.
He also emphasized that the youth are the future of this place and through the pursuit of education and awareness, they can help shape a just and prosperous community.
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