Mirpur (AJK) , (UrduPoint / Pakistan a point news – March 19, 2026) An imprisoned Kashmiri political leader condemned the closure of the historic Jama Masjid in Srinagar, describing it as a violation of religious freedom in illegal places. Indian occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), said a report received here on Thursday.
Engineer Rashid, a leader of the Baramulla district who is currently imprisoned, criticized the authorities for closing the mosque and preventing worshipers from performing prayers. He accused the administration in New Delhi of applying double standards.
“When you shower flowers on other religious gatherings elsewhere, why is the Jama Masjid in Srinagar being forcibly closed?” he asked. He was quoted as saying.
Referring to the holy month of Ramadan, Rashid said he remained in prison during the main celebrations, including the Friday of Death and Shab al-Qadr, but extended his greetings to people in his constituency and across the region.
He also called for greater recognition of Kashmir’s cultural identity, and suggested that trains be named after prominent historical figures such as Hiba Khatun, Lal Ded, Sheikh al-Alam or Sultan al-Arifeen.
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