On Friday, Pakistan’s Foreign Office issued a strong condemnation over the persistent closure of the historic Jama Masjid located in Srinagar, within Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). This closure, which has now been enforced for the seventh year in a row, coincides with the last Friday of the holy month of Ramadan, a day of immense spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide. The Foreign Office highlighted the gravity of this action, stressing that it represents a blatant infringement on religious rights and freedoms.
The statement from the Foreign Office emphasized that barring worshippers from congregating at one of the most venerated mosques in the Kashmir Valley is a serious violation of fundamental human rights. Jama Masjid, a centuries-old symbol of faith and community in Srinagar, has traditionally been a focal point for large gatherings, especially during Ramadan. The repeated sealing of this mosque by the Indian occupation authorities not only disrupts religious observances but also deepens the sense of alienation among Kashmiri Muslims.
Since the controversial and widely criticized actions taken by India on August 5, 2019, which included the revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status, the restrictions on religious freedoms in the region have intensified. The closure of Jama Masjid on the last Friday of Ramadan is part of a broader pattern of measures aimed at curbing public expressions of faith and dissent. The Foreign Office underscored that these restrictions during such a sacred period are particularly troubling and exacerbate the already tense situation in the occupied territory.
In addition to condemning these actions, Pakistan’s Foreign Office called upon the international community to take urgent notice. The statement urged global institutions, including the United Nations and various human rights organizations, to intervene and ensure that India respects the right to freedom of religion in IIOJK. It stressed that religious freedom is a fundamental human right that must be upheld without discrimination or political interference.
As the world observes Ramadan, a time dedicated to reflection, prayer, and unity, the continued closure of Jama Masjid sends a disheartening message to the Kashmiri people. The Foreign Office’s appeal highlights the need for international solidarity in protecting the rights of oppressed communities and ensuring that places of worship remain accessible to all believers. The situation in IIOJK remains a critical human rights concern, with religious freedoms at its core.
