Pakistan slams India over continued closure of Srinagar’s main mosque

Pakistan on Friday strongly condemned the continued closure of the historic Jamia Masjid of Srinagar on the last Friday of Ramadan, calling it a serious violation of religious freedom and fundamental human rights.

In a statement, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan said the Indian authorities’ decision to keep the mosque closed was deeply concerning, particularly during the holy month when large congregational prayers are traditionally held.

The spokesperson noted that the historic mosque in Srinagar has remained closed for the seventh year since the measures taken by India on 5 August 2019 regarding Jammu and Kashmir.

According to the statement, restrictions on religious activities during Ramadan are “extremely worrying” and represent a denial of the basic rights of Muslims in the region.

Pakistan also called on the United Nations and international human rights organisations to take notice of India’s actions and address the situation.

The Foreign Office reiterated Pakistan’s demand that India ensure the protection of religious freedom as a fundamental human right in what it described as Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.