Political Tensions Mark Eid Celebrations in Jammu and Kashmir
Eid celebrations in Jammu and Kashmir were marred by political controversy as Mehbooba Mufti raised issues during the festivities. While thousands gathered for prayers at Hazratbal, restrictions prevented worshippers from attending the historic Jamia Masjid. Prominent religious leaders voiced their concerns over the ongoing limitations, highlighting the irony of political leaders wishing Eid Mubarak while imposing restrictions on religious practices. This complex situation raises questions about the intersection of faith and politics in the region.
Mar 21, 2026, 15:57 IST
Political Controversy Surrounds Eid in Jammu and Kashmir
In Jammu and Kashmir, the Eid celebrations were overshadowed by significant political tensions. Mehbooba Mufti, the president of the PDP, attempted to inject bitterness into the festive atmosphere by raising political issues. During her remarks, she offered prayers for the people of Palestine, Lebanon, and Iran, yet she seemed oblivious to the suffering of those affected by Iranian attacks in the Gulf region. Furthermore, she did not acknowledge the plight of Indians who were killed or injured during the crisis in the Gulf.
Additionally, slogans supporting Iran's deceased Supreme Leader Khamenei echoed through the streets of Kashmir. Observing this, one might wonder why there is mourning for Khamenei, known for his anti-India stance, on the streets of Kashmir. What is fueling these attempts to disrupt the local atmosphere?
Eid Celebrations Amid Restrictions
On a different note, Eid-ul-Fitr was celebrated in Kashmir with traditional joy and enthusiasm. At the Hazratbal shrine, located by the Dal Lake, a large gathering of Muslims performed prayers and exchanged greetings. However, authorities denied permission for Eid prayers at the historic Jamia Masjid in Srinagar. Over 50,000 devotees participated in the largest collective prayer for Eid at Hazratbal. To prevent large crowds, heavy security was deployed around the Jamia Masjid in the Nowhatta area of Srinagar. The Anjuman Auqaf Jamia Masjid had previously announced that Eid prayers would be held at the mosque and urged authorities not to impose any restrictions.
Meanwhile, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, a prominent religious leader in Kashmir, expressed his concerns on social media, stating, “For the seventh consecutive year, restrictions and detentions have prevented Eid prayers at Jamia Masjid. What should be a day of joy and worship has turned into sorrow and deprivation for Muslims.” He lamented, “It is ironic that those who lock our mosques and Eidgahs are the first to come and wish us ‘Eid Mubarak’!” Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also expressed regret over the denial of permission for Eid prayers at the mosque.