Srinagar, Nov 21 (KNS): Delivering the Friday sermon at Jama Masjid, Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Molvi Umar Farooq urged authorities to ensure that harassment of Kashmiris studying and working in different parts of India following the Delhi blast is stopped immediately.

He said reports of Kashmiri students and workers being singled out in housing colonies and questioned solely because of their identity have caused widespread concern. He said it is the responsibility of authorities to ensure the safety and security of people from Kashmir.

In a statement issued to KNS, Mirwaiz said recent raids on the Kashmir Times office in Jammu indicate that press freedoms are under strain. He said every dissenting voice appears to be viewed with suspicion, which undermines democratic values. He said Kashmir Times carries the legacy of Ved Bhasin, and such actions against the organisation were unfortunate.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Referring to the Nowgam blast that claimed more than nine lives, Mirwaiz said the incident was deeply painful. He said the tragedy could have been avoided had seized material been handled responsibly. He added that those responsible must be held accountable and the investigation completed and made public.

Mirwaiz also commented on KPDCL’s proposal for a 20% surcharge on power tariffs during peak hours, calling it unfair to people already facing economic strain. He said winter months in Kashmir are challenging and raising tariffs at such a time would increase hardship. He said the government should fulfil its commitment of providing 200 units of free electricity to poor households instead of placing new burdens. Mirwaiz urged the administration to withdraw the proposal.(KNS).