Paris ,(Parliament Times): Chaudhry Naeem Akhtar, Chairman of the Jammu and Kashmir Forum France and former Coordinator to the Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir for Europe, has expressed deep concern over the ongoing restrictions in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, specifically the hurdles placed on mosques during the holy month of Ramadan. In a statement issued to the media, he remarked that while Ramadan is a sacred month of worship, spiritual training, and collective harmony for Muslims, religious freedoms are unfortunately being curtailed in the occupied territory during this period.
He pointed out that in these blessed days, when thousands of worshippers seek to visit mosques for prayer and guidance, the pulpit of the historic Jamia Masjid in Srinagar has been silenced, with roads and pathways leading to the mosque blocked by barricades. Mr. Akhtar emphasized that this situation is not only a blatant violation of religious freedom but also a direct infringement upon the fundamental human rights of Kashmiri Muslims. He noted that Jamia Masjid Srinagar is far more than a place of worship; it is a vital symbol of the religious, social, and historical identity of the Kashmiri people, and the ongoing restrictions there have deeply wounded the sentiments of the public.
Furthermore, he asserted that such prohibitions during a holy month are contrary to global human rights principles and international law. Chaudhry Naeem Akhtar called upon the international community, the United Nations, and global human rights organizations to take immediate notice of these violations and play an active role in securing the basic rights of the Kashmiri people. He concluded by stating that the world must raise its voice for the just rights of the Kashmiris rather than ignoring the systemic injustices they continue to face