Srinagar: Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, chairman of the Hurriyat Conference and head of the Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU), on Friday strongly condemned the alleged torture of five civilians by security forces in Kishtwar.
“The disturbing images circulating in the media depicting severe torture marks on their bodies have raised significant concerns about human rights violations in the region,” Mirwaiz said, according to a statement.
Speaking at the Friday congregation at Jama Masjid Srinagar, Mirwaiz expressed deep sorrow over the incident. “He emphasized that perpetrators of such acts are rarely held accountable, and he hopes that the inquiry ordered by the authorities will lead to justice for the victims,” the statement said.
Furthermore, Mirwaiz addressed another pressing issue regarding a recent directive from a BJP-ruled state mandating that Mutawalis(caretakers) seek consent
Furthermore, Mirwaiz addressed another pressing issue regarding a recent directive from a BJP-ruled state mandating that Mutawalis(caretakers) seek consent from a state-appointed Waqf head before delivering Friday sermons. He described this move as a direct attack on the religious rights and freedoms of the Muslim community, asserting that it exceeds the jurisdiction of any Waqf Board.
“This directive exposes the true motives behind the Waqf Amendment Bill introduced by the BJP in Parliament,” he stated. “State control over religious rights and affairs is completely unacceptable and will be met with strong opposition from Muslims.”
The MMU has formally reached out to the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), requesting a meeting to present their concerns regarding these amendments.
“Despite being a Muslim-majority region, their requests for dialogue have yet to materialize. With reports indicating that the Waqf Bill may be presented again in Parliament, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq urged lawmakers to refrain from making hasty decisions that could further infringe upon the rights of the Muslim community,” the statement said.
The MMU remains committed to advocating for the rights and freedoms of Muslims in Jammu and Kashmir and will continue to oppose any legislation perceived as an assault on their religious institutions, it added.
Mirwaiz condemns torture of Kishtwar civilians
