Srinagar, Mar 27: Authorities have barred night-long prayers at Srinagar’s historic Jama Masjid on Lailatul Qadr, one of the holiest nights in Islam, with Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha extending greetings on the occasion.
The Anjuman Auqaf Jama Masjid said they were informed that the mosque would remain closed, preventing congregational supplications.
Lailatul Qadr, observed in the last ten days of Ramadan, marks the night when the Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It is regarded as the most sacred night in Islam, with believers engaging in prayers, seeking divine mercy, and reflecting on their faith.
Expressing dismay over the decision, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq said it was deeply regrettable that the mosque would be shut on such a spiritually significant night.
“On this highly revered night, when Muslims around the world seek Allah’s forgiveness, the central Jama Masjid Srinagar will be closed. It is extremely distressing that the authorities’ insensitivity will deprive tens of thousands of worshippers of their spiritual solace,” he said.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha extended their greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir on Shab-e-Qadr and Jumat-ul-Vida, the last Friday of Ramadan.
CM Abdullah, in his message, described Shab-e-Qadr as a night of divine mercy and forgiveness, urging people to use the occasion for prayers, self-reflection, and seeking blessings for peace and prosperity.
“May these blessed occasions bring harmony, well-being, and strengthen the bonds of compassion in our society,” he said.
LG Sinha also conveyed his wishes, saying, “On the auspicious occasions of Shab-e-Qadr and Jumat-ul-Vida, I extend my heartfelt greetings. May the Almighty accept our prayers and guide us on the path of compassion, love, and harmony.”
Since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, authorities have repeatedly barred major prayers, including Eid and Shab-e-Qadr, at Srinagar's historic Jama Masjid, citing security concerns, as the mosque remains a focal point for political expression, often reflecting anti-India sentiments.
The mosque remained closed for congregational prayers for over four months following the revocation, reopening in December 2019.
Eid prayers have been disallowed at the Jama Masjid since 2019, marking the sixth consecutive year of such restrictions.
In April 2022, authorities sealed the mosque to prevent potential pro-Palestine protests.
Besides, in March 2024, night prayers on Shab-e-Baraat were prohibited for the sixth consecutive year, with worshippers turned away and the mosque's gates closed.