The Kashmir Pulse

PULWAMA — The Friday following Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi was observed across the Union Territory with religious fervour. In this connection, hundreds of devotees participated in Eid-e-Milad procession in southern Kashmir's Pulwama town.

The procession was taken out from multiple areas of Pulwama town and later culminated near Jamia Masjid Pulwama.

While raising slogans of the highness of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), people in large numbers thronged the Pulwama market. Holding green flags, people from various areas participated in the Milad procession.

Mohammad Akram, Mirwaiz for Pulwama district, was leading the procession. Speaking on the occasion, Mirwaiz said that they are grateful for the occasion as it provided them with the opportunity to observe the Friday following Eid-e-Milad Nabi with a large number of devotees.

"We have the chance to demonstrate our unity as Muslims on this day, which serves as a reminder that all Muslims are the same throughout the world," he continued.

SRINAGAR — National Conference (NC) leader Bashir Ahmad Nengroo on Sunday criticized the BJP-led Central government, accusing it of undermining secular principles with the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024.

Nengroo, speaking exclusively with The Kashmir Pulse from Pulwama district in southern Kashmir, said the bill is a direct attack on the Constitutional rights of Muslims and threatens to strip Waqf properties from the community. “The BJP is using this bill to grab Muslim properties and marginalize the community in India’s democratic setup,” he said.

He further accused the government of consistently targeting minority groups, particularly Muslims, through divisive and hateful politics. "They advocate Ram Rajya, but their actions are harmful to minorities," Nengroo added.

He urged parliamentarians to reflect on the historical contributions of Muslims, particularly during India's freedom struggle. Nengroo reaffirmed the NC’s commitment to equal rights for all, regardless of religion, region, or caste, and emphasized the party's dedication to restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, including Ladakh, and working towards the reinstatement of Article 370.

Nengroo also questioned the BJP's claims of improved security in Kashmir, pointing to ongoing attacks that continue to claim the lives of security forces. "The BJP cherry-picks what to highlight, ignoring the ongoing violence in the region," he said.

The Waqf Amendment Bill 2024 has drawn criticism from several opposition leaders who see it as an effort to dilute the rights of Muslims in India.

It is in place to state here that the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024 was introduced in the Lok Sabha on August 8, 2024. It seeks to repeal Mussalman Wakf Act, 1923 and amend the Waqf Act, 1995. The Act regulates Waqf property in India and defines Waqf as an endowment of movable or immovable property for purposes considered pious, religious, or charitable under Muslim law. The Bill renames the Act to ‘United Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Act, 1995’.

SRINAGAR — The Muttahida Majlis-e-Ulama (MMU) Jammu & Kashmir and Muslim Personal Law Board convened an extraordinary meeting to discuss the controversial Waqf Amendment Bill 2024.

The gathering, chaired by Grand Mufti Nasir Islam Faruqi, brought together prominent scholars who unanimously rejected the bill, calling for its immediate withdrawal.

The council expressed strong opposition to the government's attempts to legalize the bill, emphasizing that Waqf properties are owned by Allah Almighty and are an integral part of Islamic beliefs. They argued that any governmental interference undermines the fundamental concept of Waqf, making such efforts unacceptable to Muslims.

The MMU has already submitted a detailed letter to the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), outlining their concerns and labeling the bill as anti-Muslim. They have offered to present their position directly to the JPC, if necessary.

The meeting also condemned the repeated house arrest of Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, calling for his immediate release. The council appealed to Imams and religious scholars to support their resolution during Friday prayers, promoting unity amidst ongoing challenges in Kashmir.

SRINAGAR — The Muttahida Majlise-e-Ulama (MMU) Jammu and Kashmir expressed its firm resolve to disallow any attempts to spread sectarian discord in Kashmir and harm to the region's traditional sectarian harmony.

The Majlis earnestly appealed to scholars, masjid imams and those active on social media, belonging to various schools of thought and sects that while each is free to follow its own practices, they should absolutely refrain from targeting the beliefs of other sects in their lectures, sermons, addresses or discussions on social media or any other platform, thereby causing conflict.

In a special meeting presided over by the MMU patron Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr Moulvi Muhammad Umar Farooq and attended by Maulana Rahmatullah Mir al-Qasimi, Agha Syed Hassan al-Moosvi al-Safawi, Grand Mufti of Kashmir Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam Farooqi, Maulana Masroor Abbas Ansari, Dr Abdul Latif al-Kindi, Maulana Ghulam Rasool Hami, Agha Syed Mohammad Hadi al-Moosvi, and Maulana Shaukat Hussain Keng and M.S. Rehman Shams, the Majlis issued this statement.

The meeting emphasised that the issues and challenges faced by the Muslim community at various levels can only be overcome by uniting under the banner of Tawheed (monotheism).

The statement condemned recent efforts by certain groups to incite sectarian discord, calling these actions regretful and reprehensible.

The ulemas present stressed that the religious personalities of Islam should be respected by all and since all Muslims share the common religion and its goals, it is detrimental to the entire Ummah when minor differences are made into contentious matters by some to advance narrow sectarian objectives at the expense of the broader interests of the Muslim community in Kashmir.

The Majlis made it clear that it will not tolerate provocations, sectarian discord or the denigration of each other’s beliefs. As a responsible and robust forum of the Muslims of J&K, the Muttahida Majlis-e-Ulama will confront these elements with full force and hold them accountable in the public domain.

The statement also said that the MMU called upon all members of the Kashmiri Muslim community, civil society, and media to play their part as responsible citizens in maintaining communal cohesion in such times.

On this occasion, a decision was also taken to broaden the forum and further strengthen it by including more religious organisations and leading scholars from all over Jammu and Kashmir in the Majlis in the cause of inter-Muslim unity.

NEW DELHI — Muslims in Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh and various other states including Tamil Nadu and Kerala joined millions worldwide on Wednesday in celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr, marking the conclusion of the month-long Ramadan fasting period.

In a show of faith and unity, worshippers gathered at mosques and open prayer grounds to offer 'Namaz', or Eid prayers. In Jammu and Kashmir, morning prayers marked the start of Eid celebrations, with communities coming together to observe the holy festival.

In Coimbatore, hundreds congregated for mass prayer ceremonies, while similar scenes unfolded in Kerala's Ernakulam district and Thiruvananthapuram, where large numbers participated in prayers.

The festive spirit extended beyond prayer as markets bustled with activity, with people flocking to buy traditional sweets and delicacies for the occasion. Shopkeepers reported high demand for treats such as gulab jamun, rasgulla, and seviyan, along with a variety of savoury snacks.

Despite the shared joy, regional differences in the sighting of the crescent moon led to varying observations of Eid-ul-Fitr. While Jammu and Kashmir, along with Ladakh, confirmed celebrations for Wednesday after moon sighting on April 9, other regions like Hyderabad, Lucknow, and Delhi opted to celebrate on April 11 due to the absence of moon sighting.

Eid-ul-Fitr holds profound significance in the Islamic calendar, signifying the end of Ramadan fasting and the beginning of Shawwal. The observance of the moon-sighting tradition underscores the cultural and spiritual significance of the festival, which also marks the start of a new Islamic year.

With rituals and grace, Muslims across India and beyond embrace Eid-ul-Fitr as a time of joy, reflection, and community solidarity.

SRINAGAR — Bidding adieu to the auspicious month of Ramadan, congregational Friday prayers were held on the Jumu'atul-Widaa (the last Friday of Ramadan) at revered shrines and mosques across Kashmir except for the Jamia Masjid Srinagar, which remained closed.

It was learnt by the news agency CNS that shrines and mosques in the valley on the Jumu'atul-Widaa witnessed a surge in devotees’ presence, who offered their Friday prayers, seeking expiation for their sins and bidding farewell with moist eyes to the ongoing Ramadan (month of fasting), which is drawing closer to its end.

On the occasion of the Jumu'atul-Widaa, the biggest gathering was held at Dargah Hazratbal, Srinagar, where devotees in large numbers participated in Friday prayers. JKNC President Dr Farooq Abdullah, Vice President Omar Abdullah, PDP President Mehbooba Mufti and Apni Party President Altaf Bukhari also visited the Hazratbal shrine and offered Friday prayers.

In Srinagar, the congregational prayers were held at Masjid Asar-e-Sharif, Janab Sahib, Soura; Jamiat-e-Ahle Hadith, Gawkadal; Asar-e-Sharif, Shehri Kalashpora; Ziarat Dastgeer Sahib, Sarai Bala; Ziarat Dastgeer Sahib, Khanyar; Ziarat-e-Makhdoom Sahib, Khanqah-e-Moula, and several other mosques and shrines.

Meanwhile, authorities shut the Jamia Masjid Srinagar for Friday prayers on the Jumu'atul-Widaa and did not allow Mirwaiz Dr Umar Farooq to deliver a sermon, which he was expected to address the devotees on the last Friday of Ramadan.

In central Kashmir’s Budgam, Anjuman-e-Sharie Shian said that a huge rally was held on Friday, with scores of women and children in attendance.

Addressing the gathering, Anjuman Sharie Shian President Aga Syed Hassan Mosavi Al-Safavi criticised the world community for supporting Israel in its oppression of Palestinians. He demanded that Muslim countries should come together for the Palestinian cause.

BANDIPORA — Amidst the holy month of Ramadan, approximately 1000 devout Muslims are participating in Itikaf at the renowned seminary, Darul Uloom Raheemiyyah, Bandipora, dedicating themselves to spiritual reflection and worship.

Itikaf is a spiritual practice observed by Muslims during the last 10 days of Ramadan. Participants withdraw from worldly activities and distractions, focusing on worship, recitation of the Quran, and acts of remembrance and supplication to seek closeness to Allah.

The management at the seminary informed the news agency KNO that around 1000 individuals, including both youth and elderly from various parts of the valley, are observing Itikaf this Ramadan. Approximately 250 food plates (Traamis) are being served daily, covering both Sehri (pre-dawn meals) and Iftaar (breaking of fast).

In addition to those performing Itikaf, a large number of locals join for prayers and a grand Iftaar on a daily basis.

It is worth mentioning that during the last Ramadan, over 600 men observed Itikaf at this Islamic seminary. Over the years, the seminary has become a popular destination for people from both the valley and outsiders.

SRINAGAR — Jammu Kashmir Employees Coordination Committee (JKECC) on Monday urged the J&K Administration for three-day special casual leave for Jammu-based Muslim employees working in the Valley to enable them to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr with their families and sought a full day special leave for Muslim employees on the day of Arafah.

As per the news agency CNS, the President of JKECC Shah Fayaz has requested the J&K Administration to announce three-day special leave for Jammu-based Muslim employees, who are working in the Valley so that they could celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr in their homes along with families.

Fayaz has also requested a full day of special leave for all Muslim employees on the Arafah, a day before Eid for preparations.

“I request LG Manoj Sinha, Chief Secretary Atul Duloo and Divisional Commissioner Kashmir to kindly have a considerate view of demands and issue necessary orders in this regard,” President JKECC said.

He said that the majority of the concerned employees are either heads of their families or the lone-earning souls of their families.

“So, it is requested on humanitarian grounds that such employees may kindly be given relief in terms of three days of special casual leave on the special occasion of Eid ul Fitr. It will be a favour for which the JKECC would be highly indebted to higher-ups and hopefully, the submission may be considered and orders be issued in this regard as soon as possible,” said Shah Fayaz.

SRINAGAR — Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti on Wednesday urged people to exercise their voting rights judiciously in response to what she termed as “contentious laws” like the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) and to thwart the “divisive tactics employed by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).”

According to the news agency KNO, Mufti, addressing reporters at the party headquarters in Srinagar, cautioned against falling into the trap laid by the BJP, emphasizing that laws like the CAA are mere distractions orchestrated to divert attention from pressing issues such as unemployment, agrarian distress, and inflation.

Accusing the BJP of fostering communalism and exacerbating religious tensions in the country, Mehbooba underscored the need for vigilance and unity among citizens, particularly the Muslim community, to resist such “divisive agendas.”

Drawing attention to the repercussions of the CAA, Mehbooba lamented the demolition of mosques, searches in religious institutions, and targeted vilification of Muslims.

She urged the populace to remain calm and steadfast in the face of provocations, cautioning against reactionary responses that could exacerbate communal tensions. “Many mosques were demolished, idols were searched in every mosque, madrassas and houses of people were demolished. Namazis are being insulted. They (BJP) have tried every trick. When they saw that Muslims were still not coming out, the way they wanted, they used this trick called CAA,” alleged the PDP Chief.

Highlighting the significance of peaceful protests like the one at Shaheen Bagh in Delhi, Mufti expressed concern over the detention of numerous youth without bail, urging Hindus and Muslims alike to refrain from falling prey to the BJP's machinations. Instead, she advocated for continued engagement in democratic processes and emphasized the power of voting as a means to challenge “oppressive” laws and policies.

Mufti also denounced the BJP's attempts to undermine democracy and subvert the Constitution, warning against the erosion of secular values in the name of religious politics. She emphasized the importance of consulting experts and considering the ecological and economic implications before implementing projects like the proposed railway line in southern Kashmir's Shopian district, which could adversely impact the region's delicate ecosystem and economy.

“Jammu and Kashmir, especially the valley, is environmentally a fragile zone. Its ecosystem is delicate. Our economy is dependent on the fruit industry. If you plan a railway line through every village without thinking about it, thousands of trees will be damaged. This will prove disastrous for our economy,” Mehbooba said.

SRINAGAR — The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Party Vice President Omar Abdullah on Tuesday said that BJP has given Ramadan gift to Muslims by notifying CAA “which is against the very foundation of our constitution”.

He said this while talking to the press at the party headquarters Nawa-e-Subha. Omar Abdullah said that notifying (CAA) days before the announcement of the Lok Sabha elections shows the BJP is not confident about winning 400 seats in the ensuing polls.

"It is evident that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) wants to use religion in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. It was passed in 2019, but notifying the CAA (rules) just a few days before the bugle of elections is to be blown, perhaps making it clear what their aim is," he said.

He added, "They were saying that after the construction of the Ram Temple, they could not lose. But perhaps they feel that their position is weak and that is why they have to use these new weapons to sway gullible voters.”

He further emphasised that BJP wants to use religion in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. “Muslims have always been a target of the BJP, which is not something new for the party. Even in the CAA, Muslims have been made a specific target. This is not new for the BJP as this has been their approach before as well. It seems they want to use the politics of polarisation in the upcoming elections,” he said.

SRINAGAR — The Ramadan moon has been sighted in Jammu and Kashmir this evening, Grand Mufti, Jammu and Kashmir, Mufti Nasir ul Islam Farooqi, announced.

“Ramzan crescent of 1445 AH was sighted in different parts of Jammu and Kashmir and the holy month commences this evening with the first day of the month of fasting to be marked tomorrow,” Mufti Nasir ul Islam said, as per the news agency GNS.

He conveyed that the announcement is being made after consultations with other respected members.

Greeting the people, the Grand Mufti prayed that the Almighty Allah ease the hardships and shower his blessings and bring peace and prosperity during this holy month to everyone.

SRINAGAR — In a move aimed at ensuring clarity and consensus on the sighting of the upcoming Holy Ramadan and Eid-ul-Fitr crescent in Jammu and Kashmir, a prominent scholarly committee has been established under the leadership of Grand Mufti Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam Farooqi.

The committee, spearheaded by Mufti Farooqi and comprising notable religious figures including Mirwaiz Kashmir Moulvi Umar Farooq, will evaluate the credibility of witnesses reporting crescent sightings across the region, as confirmed by a communiqué obtained by The Kashmir Pulse.

The decision to form this committee comes in the wake of last year's reported discrepancies in crescent sightings during Ramadan, aiming to mitigate confusion among the populace. Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam Farooqi clarified that the committee was exclusively constituted by the Muslim Personal Law Board, dismissing rumours of involvement from other quarters.

The committee's members, spread across various districts of Jammu and Kashmir, will remain in constant communication to swiftly report any crescent sightings to Mufti Farooqi or designated committee members. Once witnesses come forward, the scholars will meticulously assess their reliability before making an official announcement.

A long list of committee members from different regions, including Srinagar, Ganderbal, Bandipora, Baramulla, Kupwara, Budgam, Kulgam, Anantnag, Jammu, Pulwama, Shopian, Samba, Kathua, Ramban, Rajouri, Poonch, Reasi, and Leh/Ladakh, underscores the broad representation and concerted effort to ensure a thorough evaluation process.

SRINAGAR — Thousands of devotees from all over Kashmir converged at the revered shrine Hazratbal in Srinagar to have a glimpse of the holy relic of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) on the occasion of Mehraj-e-Alam (SAW) on Thursday.

Mehraj-e-Alam (SAW) was celebrated with great religious fervour across J&K. From Wednesday evening, thousands of devotees from far-off places of Kashmir reached the Hazratbal shrine to be part of the night-long gathering.

Duroods, Khatmatul Moazamat and Naats were recited throughout the night at the shrine after which the holy relic of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was displayed to devotees soon after the Fajar (pre-dawn) prayers. As per reports, similar gatherings were held in the Jammu region as well.

Thousands of people were seen rushing towards the shrine for Zuhr (afternoon prayers) and to have a glimpse of the holy relic. The holy relic was displayed after every prayer of the day.

The 26th night of the Islamic month Rajab is observed as Mehraj-e-Aalam (SAW) across the world. It was the night when Prophet Muhammad (SAW) descended on the journey of skies in the middle of the night.

Emotional scenes were witnessed at the shrine when the holy relic was displayed for the devotees after Zuhr prayers. People, children and women were seen praying with moist eyes. “This is the time when our prayers get answered,” Shameema, a woman devotee, who had come from northern district of Kupwara told the news agency KNO.

Like her, there were scores of women seeking the blessings of Almighty Allah while the holy relic was on display. “Having a glimpse of the holy relic gives us relief from the pain. This soothes our eyes, and hearts and purifies our hearts,” said Ali Muhammad Darzi, a resident of Srinagar.

Children including young boys and girls were also seen in tears while having a glimpse of the holy relic.

Meanwhile, the medical camps had been set up at the shrine and the administration had made excellent arrangements for the devotees. For the protection of the devotees, policemen were deployed in length.

As per the shrine administration, the holy relic will be displayed for the devotees after every prayer tomorrow as it is Friday. “We expect a large gathering at the shrine tomorrow (Friday),” a caretaker of the shrine said.

SRINAGAR — Post the construction of the Ram Temple, Ayodhya district of Uttar Pradesh is set to witness the establishment of India's largest mosque.

Sources privy to the Development told the news agency KNS that the forthcoming state-of-the-art mosque namely Mohammad Bin Abdullah is set to occupy an expansive area which will surpass the footprint of the recently constructed Ram Temple.

Insiders privy to the matter have divulged that the auspicious laying of the foundation stone for the mosque is slated for May 2024.

Notably, the event will witness the presence of the Imam of Kaaba, adding a global touch to the ceremony. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to join the momentous occasion, and there are indications that Saudi Arabia's King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and UAE Absolute ruler and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum may also grace the event, they added.

Sources also said that although initial plans aimed for the foundation stone to be laid in April 2024, it has been rescheduled to May due to the sacred month of Ramadhan and Eid-ul-Fitr.

Within the precincts of the Mohammad Bin Abdullah Mosque, plans are underway to establish a cancer hospital and science laboratory which will enhance the offerings of this significant religious and architectural project, sources added.

SRINAGAR — With a heart full of gratitude and devotion, the first batch of Hajj pilgrims from Kashmir capital Srinagar embarked on the trip that every Muslim dreams about.

The excitement in the air at Srinagar Airport was palpable as pilgrims set off to fulfill their religious obligations, connected with fellow believers from around the world, and seek Allah's blessings.

From packing bags to performing ablutions, everything was done with utmost care and attention to detail. As 630 devotees boarded their flights, emotions ran high - joyous tears mingled with nervous anticipation as they embarked on the life-changing pilgrimage.

“We can only imagine how much this experience will mean to them when they return home transformed by their time spent in the holy cities of Mecca and Madina. We wish them all safe travels and an unforgettable journey filled with love, peace, and enlightenment,” Firdous Ahmed told the news agency KNT while bidding adieu to his parents.

A female pilgrim said that she will pray for peace in Jammu and Kashmir. “People have been suffering in Kashmir. We will pray to Almighty to show them light at the end of the tunnel,” she said.

Special arrangements were made for the pilgrims at the airport. Family, friends and relatives of the pilgrims gathered to wish them luck.

It is in place to mention here that the pilgrimage is one of the five pillars of Islam and holds great significance for Muslims.

Recep Tayyip Erdogan's re-election as the President of Turkey holds significant implications not only for the Turkish people but also for various countries around the world. In this critical analysis, we will delve into what Erdogan's victory means for India, a key regional player in South Asia.

The relationship between Turkey and India has witnessed ups and downs over the years, and Erdogan's continued rule is likely to shape their interactions in the future.

Shifts in Foreign Policy:

Erdogan's prolonged tenure as Turkey's leader has been marked by a notable shift in the country's foreign policy approach. His assertive stance on international issues, particularly related to the Muslim world, has garnered attention and raised concerns in various quarters. Erdogan has positioned himself as a leader advocating for the rights and interests of Muslims worldwide, which resonates with a significant segment of the Muslim population in India.

Impact on India-Turkey Relations:

Erdogan's victory is likely to have both positive and negative consequences for India-Turkey relations. On one hand, his emphasis on the rights of Muslims may generate a sense of solidarity among Indian Muslims who have faced challenges and discrimination. This sentiment could potentially lead to an increase in people-to-people exchanges, cultural ties, and collaboration in areas of mutual interest.

However, Erdogan's more assertive foreign policy, especially his vocal support for contentious issues in the Muslim world, could strain the relationship between India and Turkey. For instance, Erdogan's stance on Kashmir, where he has expressed concerns about the rights of Muslims, has been met with criticism from India. This could create friction between the two countries, particularly if Turkey chooses to interfere in India's affairs.

Trade and Economic Cooperation:

Trade and economic cooperation form an essential aspect of bilateral relations between nations. Turkey and India have a trade relationship that has fluctuated over the years. Erdogan's victory may have implications for trade ties between the two countries.

Erdogan's government has pursued an ambitious economic agenda, and his continued rule could offer stability and predictability for Indian businesses seeking to invest in Turkey. However, potential differences in policy priorities and Erdogan's focus on increasing self-reliance could impact the trade dynamics between the two nations.

Geopolitical Realignment:

Erdogan's prolonged rule and his evolving foreign policy approach have led to a geopolitical realignment, both regionally and globally. Turkey has sought to establish itself as a major player in the Middle East and has shown a willingness to challenge traditional power structures. This realignment may impact India's diplomatic engagements in the region, particularly in terms of navigating complex relationships with countries like Iran and Saudi Arabia, where Turkey has significant influence.

Conclusion:

Erdogan's victory in the Turkish presidential election holds implications for India across various dimensions. While his emphasis on the rights of Muslims may resonate with a section of the Indian population, his assertive foreign policy and potential interference in India's affairs could strain bilateral relations.

The evolving geopolitical landscape, influenced by Erdogan's continued rule, also necessitates a recalibration of India's regional engagements. As India navigates these shifts, it will be crucial to carefully assess the impact of Erdogan's victory and work towards maintaining a balanced approach that safeguards India's interests and ensures stability in the region.

SRINAGAR — The vibrant and much-anticipated annual mela at Mata Kheer Bhawani temple in central Kashmir's Ganderbal district has kicked off with fervor, bringing together Kashmiri Pandits in a heartfelt prayer for peace and the return of old times to the Valley.

Amidst the jubilant atmosphere, a dedicated devotee expressed her hopes and aspirations, emphasizing the longing for harmony and brotherhood among all communities.

Speaking to the news agency KNS, the Pandit lady devotee, deeply connected to the spiritual significance of the mela, passionately expressed her wishes for the revival of the bygone era of unity and tranquility in the Valley. She fervently prayed for the return of peace, where people from different backgrounds can coexist in harmony and mutual respect.

As the mela unfolded, the local Muslim community extended their unwavering support and assistance, garnering heartfelt appreciation from the Kashmiri Pandits. Their commendable efforts in making all the necessary arrangements for the annual event have fostered an atmosphere of inclusivity and shared cultural heritage.

The collective gratitude expressed by the Kashmiri Pandit community towards their Muslim neighbours echoes the spirit of unity and brotherhood that lies at the core of Kashmir's rich history. "This heartening gesture reinforces the idea that peaceful coexistence and cultural exchange can help heal the wounds of the past and pave the way for a brighter and more harmonious future," said another Pandit devotee.

He also said that the Mata Kheer Bhawani mela, a cherished tradition in the region, not only serves as a platform for religious devotion but also symbolizes the resilience and spirit of the people of Kashmir. "It serves as a reminder of the shared cultural roots that bind the diverse communities of the Valley together," he said.

"As devotees gather in large numbers to seek blessings and offer prayers, the mela becomes a testament to the enduring faith and unwavering hope that transcends boundaries and unites people in their quest for peace and spiritual fulfillment," he added.

SRINAGAR — Special prayers were organized in all the major mosques, shrines and imambarahs of the valley including the historic Central Jama Masjid Srinagar, for those who lost their lives in the devastating earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria earlier this week in which the death toll crossed over 21,000 and injuries to innumerable people.

At Jamia Masjid Srinagar, the prayers were led by Imam Hai Moulana Ahmad Saeed Naqshbandi who, on behalf of the people of Kashmir, expressed sympathy and solidarity with the people of Turkey and Syria and prayed for eternal peace to the departed souls and speedy recovery to those injured.

He also expressed strong resentment against the authorities for keeping the valley’s top religious leader Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr. Moulvi Muhammad Umar Farooq continuously under detention for the last three and a half years and termed it extremely unfortunate and condemnable.

He said that due to the continued detention of Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir, the mimbar-o-mihrab (pulpit) of the Central Jama Masjid has been constantly silent for all these years and he is also unable to discharge his religious duties towards the people.

Imam Naqshbandi appealed to the authorities to end the prolonged and unjustified detention of Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir and release him before Shah-e Me’raj-ul-Nabi (SAW).

On the occasion, the people who had come from various parts of the valley to perform Friday prayers in the Jamia Masjid also expressed great anger against the continued detention of Mirwaiz and protested against the dictatorial behavior of the authorities.

SRINAGAR — Announcing the Haj-2023 policy for this year's holy pilgrimage, the Haj Committee of India (HCoI) on Monday said that this year there will be 25 Haj embankment points while Haj application forms will be made available after three days and there will be no fee for the same.

While talking exclusively to the news agency KNO, Member HCoI, Er Aijaz Hussain said that after a crucial meeting of HCoI, it was decided that this year there will be 25 embankment points for the pilgrims across the country and Haj application forms will be made available within three days. He said that pilgrims above "70 years of age will be given top priority for the sacred journey."

Er Aijaz also said that HCoI also announced abolishing the VIP quota under which dignitaries were entitled to accommodate 5 to 10 pilgrims under the quota. "There will be no VIP quota henceforth," Er Aijaz said.

Pertinently, after thorough discussions between HCoI and the Saudi Government, it was decided that this year over 1,75000 pilgrims will perform the holy pilgrimage of Haj 2023.

Er Aijaz said that additional embankment points will help facilitate the pilgrims smoothly across the country. He said that HCoIs endeavour this year will be to make Haj2023 cheaper compared to previous years and ensure more and better facilities for pilgrims at both holy cities of Makah and Madina.

On January 10, India signed a bilateral agreement with the Saudi Government to fix the total number of pilgrims this year.

SRINAGAR — Amid restrictions in the city centre Lal Chowk, Ashura, which commemorates the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS), was observed across Kashmir valley on Tuesday with religious gaiety and mourning.

Remembering the supreme sacrifice of the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), mourning processions were taken out across Kashmir valley throughout the day wherein glowing tributes were paid to Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions who laid down their lives during the battle of Karbala against evil, falsehood and oppression.

Clad in black attire, carrying black banners, mourners paid respect to Imam (AS) and his companions while taking out huge mourning processions at several places. The district’s largest Ashura procession with Zuljanah, Alam and Tazia was held on its traditional route from Aalipora Bota Kadal, to the historic Imambargah of Zadibal.

Over 10,000 Shia Muslim mourners, including a large number of women, participated in the procession while reciting Marsthiya Majalis (an elegy to remember Karbala) and Noha (an elegy depicting Hussain's martyrdom).

While addressing the gathering at Aalipora, Agha Syed Alsafvi Al Mousavi said that the tragic battle of Karbala teaches sacrifice and perseverance for advancing the cause of truth. Thousands of devotees attended the congregation to remember the sacrifices of Imam Hussain (AS) and his pious companions on the battlefield of Karbala.

Mousavi added that the event of Karbala immortalized the fact that ultimately truth prevails and falsehood perishes. Senior religious and political leaders of the community were also part of the processions at different places which later passed off peacefully.

Tight security arrangements were put into place in Srinagar by the authorities to thwart any untoward incident.

The Alam and Zuljanah processions were also carried out in other parts of the city and the Valley. Thousands of people in the districts of Budgam, Bandipora, Baramulla, Ganderbal and Panner Jagir Tral attended the Ashura processions and paid rich tributes to Karbala martyrs. The processions were also held in Shahoo, Sachen, Vangaam of Devsar Tehsil in Kulgam district.

A similar procession was held in south Kashmir's Pulwama district, where Shia Muslims were seen mourning and performing the ritual of self-flagellation.

In the deserts of Karbala, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), Imam Hussain (AS), laid down his life along with 72 other aides, who included his family, children and acquaintances, on the 10th of Muharram. The day is commemorated as Youm-e-Ashura.

The martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS), which teaches the lessons of righteousness over evil, is remembered by Muslims across the world every year during the month of Muharram. The battle of Karbala has set an example of the supreme sacrifice in the history of mankind which depicts the victory of virtuousness over evil.

Meanwhile, govt departments, volunteers and self-help groups had pitched tents to feed the mourners along the path of the procession and to ensure that roads were not blocked. Several ambulances were also kept ready in case of emergency and there were free medical check-ups and blood donation camps along the way.