Jailed Kashmiri leader Rashid criticizes closure of Jamia Masjid in Srinagar

MIRPUR (AJK) , (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point news - 19th Mar, 2026) A jailed Kashmiri political leader has condemned the closure of Srinagar’s historic Jamia Masjid, calling it a violation of religious freedoms in Illegally Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), a report said received here on Thursday.

Engineer Rashid, a leader from Baramulla district who is currently incarcerated, criticised authorities for sealing the mosque and preventing worshippers from offering prayers. He accused the administration in New Delhi of applying double standards.

“When you shower flowers on other religious congregations in other places, why is Srinagar’s Jamia Masjid being kept closed by force?” he was quoted as saying.

Referring to the Muslim holy month of Ramzan, Rashid said he remained in jail during key observances, including Jumat-ul-Vida and Shab-e-Qadr, but extended greetings to people in his constituency and across the region.

He also called for greater recognition of Kashmir’s cultural identity, suggesting that trains be named after prominent historical figures such as Habba Khatoon, Lal Ded, Sheikh-ul-Alam or Sultan-ul-Arifeen.

APP/ahr/378