Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, a prominent religious and political figure in Kashmir, has once again been placed under house arrest, according to recent reports. This action by the authorities has sparked criticism and raised concerns about religious freedom and human rights in the region.

On Friday, September 12, 2025, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, who serves as Kashmir's chief cleric and chairman of the Hurriyat Conference, stated that he was placed under house arrest to prevent him from leading congregational prayers at Srinagar's Jamia Masjid. He was also scheduled to address a religious gathering, Majlis-e-Rahmat-ul-lil-Alameen, at the mosque.

Mirwaiz Farooq has expressed his frustration over what he describes as repeated government interference in religious practices. He cited several instances, including restrictions on religious functions at mosques, controversies surrounding the Ashoka emblem at the Hazratbal shrine, and changes to Muslim calendar holidays. He voiced his concerns on social media, stating that "Our human and political rights already stand denied, and then there is this relentless interference in our religious matters".

The incident involving the Ashoka emblem at the Hazratbal shrine occurred a week prior, when an inauguration plaque bearing the emblem was allegedly damaged by protestors who claimed it went against Islamic principles. This led to the registration of a case and the detention of several individuals for questioning. Furthermore, Mirwaiz Farooq referred to the rescheduling of the public holiday for Eid-e-Milad by the Jammu and Kashmir administration as another example of unwarranted interference.

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq holds a significant position in Kashmir, not only as a spiritual leader but also as a political figure. As the Mirwaiz of Kashmir and head of the Hurriyat Conference, his sermons at Jamia Masjid often address both faith and calls for political rights, making him an influential voice in the region.

This is not the first time Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has been placed under house arrest. He was previously detained at home ahead of Eid in March 2025 and prevented from offering prayers at the Jamia Masjid. In July 2025, he claimed he was placed under house arrest to prevent him from referencing Kashmir Martyrs' Day in his sermon.

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq had previously been released from a four-year-long house arrest in September 2023, after being detained in August 2019 when the Indian government revoked Article 370. His release in 2023 came after the Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court requested an explanation for his continued detention. Following his release, he was allowed to lead Friday prayers at the historic Jamia Masjid in Srinagar.

Despite the restrictions and challenges, Mirwaiz Farooq has asserted that the pulpit of Jamia Masjid will continue to raise its voice against religious interference and violations of people's rights. The J&K police and the Lieutenant Governor administration have not yet responded to the allegations.