Srinagar, Mar 21, 2026 : Amid widespread celebrations of Eid-ul-Fitr across Jammu and Kashmir, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday raised serious concerns over the denial of permission to offer prayers at the historic Jamia Masjid Srinagar, questioning official claims of normalcy in the region.
After offering Eid prayers at the revered Hazratbal Shrine, the Chief Minister, accompanied by National Conference president Farooq Abdullah and his sons, expressed disappointment over the continued restrictions.
Speaking to the media, Abdullah stated that while Eid prayers across the Valley concluded peacefully, the disallowing of congregational prayers at Jamia Masjid highlighted a disconnect between the ground situation and official narratives.
“What kind of normalcy is this where Eid prayers are not allowed at Jamia Masjid in Srinagar?” he remarked, adding that authorities frequently assert that the situation in Kashmir has stabilized.
He voiced hope that such restrictions would be reconsidered in the future to allow people to practice their religious traditions freely.
Touching upon global developments, Abdullah also spoke about the ongoing tensions involving the United States and Israel, terming the conflict “illegal” and expressing concern over its broader impact. He said the situation has created uncertainty across the Muslim world and affected India economically as well. Rising prices of LPG and petroleum products, he noted, are placing an additional burden on households.
Meanwhile, Kashmir’s chief cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq strongly condemned the restrictions, stating that Eid prayers at Jamia Masjid have been barred for the seventh consecutive year amid curbs and house arrests. He described the situation as deeply unfortunate, saying a day meant for celebration had turned into one of grief.
On the administrative front, Inspector General of Police (Kashmir) V K Birdi said that elaborate arrangements were put in place across the Valley to ensure peaceful celebrations. He highlighted that security personnel were deployed at key locations and special traffic measures were implemented to facilitate smooth movement of devotees.
Overall, while Eid festivities were observed peacefully across most parts of Kashmir, the continued restrictions at Jamia Masjid have once again sparked debate over the prevailing situation and the narrative of normalcy in the region.
