SRINAGAR: In order to strengthen TB control measures by identifying and supporting those most susceptible to the disease, a TB screening camp under 100-days intensified TB campaign was organized today at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office, Srinagar, witnessing active participation from a large number of employees.
Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat, stressed the importance of collaborative efforts from all Departments and the community, especially vulnerable individuals, to achieve the target of TB-free Srinagar. He urged greater participation in the campaign to raise awareness and promote early detection of tuberculosis.
DC added that this intensified campaign is a crucial step in the fight against tuberculosis, ensuring early detection, timely treatment, and increased awareness across Srinagar.
During the campaign, Officials from the District TB Centre Srinagar provided on-spot TB awareness, X-ray screening, and testing for individuals at a higher risk of infection.
Mirwaiz condemns his house arrest, closure of Jama Masjid
SRINAGAR: Mirwaiz Umar Farooq said authorities put him under house arrest and once again prevented him from attending Friday prayers at the historic Jama Masjid in Srinagar.
In a statement issued here, Mirwaiz expressed his condemnation, stating, “It’s condemnable that again and again on Fridays I am disallowed from going to Jama Masjid. Yesterday, on the auspicious occasion of Shab-e-Baraat, not only was I put under house arrest but even Jama Masjid was forcibly locked down and people were prevented from gathering. Today also I was not allowed to go to Jama Masjid.”
He emphasised his commitment to peaceful dialogue and resolution of the region’s issues, stating, “I have always, as the Mirwaiz which entails religious, milli, and political responsibilities, tried to the best of my ability to deliver them and advocated for peaceful means of resolution of the issue through talks, which In Sha Allah I will continue to pursue.”
Mirwaiz also criticised the continued closure of Jama Masjid, saying, “Closing down of Jama Masjid, which holds a special significance in the lives of Muslims of the valley, causes them great pain and hurts the sentiments of the entire population. To do so in the name of maintaining law and order is ridiculous, especially when tall claims of normalcy are made.”
Addressing the security measures surrounding his confinement, Mirwaiz questioned the rationale behind his continued house arrest despite the provision of security. “As for me, a huge cordon of security bandobast has been put around me, and I am informed that there is a great threat to my life. My movement is subject to the approval of authorities. I want to ask the rulers that now that they have provided me with so much of protection, why am I not allowed to go to Jama Masjid? Do people who have threat perception and are provided with security not move around? Are they also put under house arrest? I do not know what to make of these strange contradictions.”
He reiterated his demand for the lifting of restrictions on his movement and the reopening of Jama Masjid, stating, “I once again ask the authorities to stop this infringement on my personal freedom and liberties and not prevent me from going to Jama Masjid on Fridays. It’s very painful for me and the thousands of people who come there to hear the sermon and for all Muslims of JK. I also ask them to desist from locking down Jama Masjid, the religious and spiritual centre for the people of J&K.”