Srinagar, Jun 06 (KNO): Addressing the Friday congregation at the historic Jama Masjid Srinagar, Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr. Moulvi Muhammad Umar Farooq strongly condemned the tragic and inhuman killing of 30-year-old Zubair Bhat of Ali Kadal, Srinagar, who was working in New Delhi.
Terming the incident as deeply disturbing and unacceptable, Mirwaiz in a statement issued to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said that Zubair’s custodial-like death—allegedly at the hands of Delhi police as claimed by his family—has brought back haunting memories of such deaths and raised serious concerns regarding the safety and security of Kashmiris residing or working in different parts of India.
Mirwaiz said that the killing has sent shockwaves through the community and added to the prevailing fear and anxiety among the thousands of Kashmiri students, professionals, traders, and labourers living outside Jammu & Kashmir. “After the recent Pahalgam incident, Kashmiris across the country are increasingly facing hostility. And now, an innocent young trader has been killed in cold blood. How long will this go on?” Mirwaiz asked.
He urged the Government of India and the UT administration to fulfill their constitutional responsibility and ensure the safety, security, and dignity of all Kashmiri citizens, especially those outside the region. “The silence and inaction only embolden those targeting Kashmiris,” he warned.
Mirwaiz also made a heartfelt appeal to civil rights organisations, writers, intellectuals, and conscientious citizens of India to raise their voice against the growing onslaught on Kashmiris and to stand up in solidarity with the victims of such brutality.
Referring to the upcoming Eid-ul-Adha, Mirwaiz expressed sorrow that for thousands of families in J&K, the festival brings no joy. “Their sons, husbands, fathers and brothers have been incarcerated for years—many without trial—in jails within and outside J&K. And each passing day, more of our youth are detained,” he said.
Mirwaiz said that all such prisoners, including political leadership, remain in the prayers and thoughts of the people. Appealing to the Government of India, he urged that a goodwill gesture be made by releasing these prisoners on the occasion of Eid. “If the Prime Minister truly seeks to reduce the ‘dil ki doori’ (distance of hearts) which he often mentions in his speeches , then such humanitarian steps are the real way forward. Train links are welcome, but it is the human links that truly matter and endure.”
Following the Friday prayers, Mirwaiz visited the residence of Zubair Ahmed Bhat at Ali Kadal to personally offer condolences and prayers. He met with the grieving family members, expressed solidarity, and assured them that he will continue to raise his voice and seek justice for Zubair—(KNO)