Fayaz Bukhari
Srinagar, June 7: With thousands participating in congregational prayers at Eidgahs, mosques and shrines, Eid-ul-Azha was celebrated with religious fervour across Kashmir today.
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The largest gathering took place in the lawns of Dargah Hazratbal along the banks of Dal Lake, where men, women and children from various parts of the Valley congregated, creating a spiritual ambiance blended with festive spirit.
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The prayers at Hazratbal were attended by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, National Conference (NC) president Dr Farooq Abdullah, PDP president and former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, as well as the Chief Minister’s two sons.
Although major mosques and shrines across Kashmir, including Waqf Board-managed sites, hosted Eid prayers, authorities did not allow congregational prayers at Srinagar’s historic Jamia Masjid or at the Eidgah grounds.
To ensure smooth movement of people and vehicles, the administration had made elaborate arrangements, including additional transport facilities. Security, sanitation and healthcare services were also deployed near major prayer sites, including Hazratbal.
Speaking to reporters after offering prayers, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed regret over the restrictions on Eid prayers at Jamia Masjid.
“I am personally saddened that, once again, people were not allowed to offer Eid prayers at Srinagar’s Jamia Masjid. I do not know the reasons behind this decision, but at some point, we must trust our people,” he said.
He noted that the same people had recently condemned the Pahalgam terror attack. “These are the very people who came out to peacefully protest against the Pahalgam terrorist attack. The Government has to place trust in its citizens,” he said, urging authorities to consider allowing prayers at the historic mosque.
Omar also expressed hope that the occasion would bring better days for Muslims across India and the world. “I hope this Eid brings peace and strengthens the spirit of brotherhood,” he said.
Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti also condemned the restrictions at Jamia Masjid, terming them “interference in religious matters.”
“On such a holy day, they have locked the mosque and are not even allowing Mirwaiz Umar Farooq to step outside. If everything is fine, why all this?” she asked, speaking to reporters after attending Eid prayers.
Following the prayers, people across Kashmir performed the traditional sacrifice of animals, commemorating the faith and devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), set to continue for next two days.
The Eidgah market, where sacrificial animals are sold, remained busy throughout the day, with people seen purchasing animals. “The market has been doing well for nearly a week, and we expect sales to continue for another day or so,” said Latief Ahmad, a seller of sacrificial animals.”
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