Srinagar, Nov 3 (KNS) : The Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Centre (RISSC), based in Amman, Jordan, has once again named Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr. Moulvi Muhammad Umar Farooq among “The 500 Most Influential Muslims in the World” for 2025.

The annual publication, which recognizes individuals making notable contributions across religious, social, and political spheres, notes that Dr. Farooq — the 14th Mirwaiz of Kashmir — assumed his father’s mantle in 1990 at the age of 17 following his father’s assassination. By the age of 20, he had founded and become the Chairman of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference.

The RISSC report describes Dr. Farooq as a consistent voice for peace and an advocate for the rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. It highlights his long-standing efforts to promote dialogue among stakeholders aimed at achieving a peaceful resolution to the Kashmir issue.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Acknowledging the challenges he has faced, the publication notes that despite being placed under house arrest for over four years following August 2019, Dr. Farooq continues to be “a key voice for Kashmir, bridging religious leadership with active engagement in human rights and regional diplomacy.”

His inclusion in the RISSC list once again reflects his sustained influence and commitment to peace, dialogue, and social harmony in the region.

This year, the RISSC named the men and women of Gaza as its “Persons of the Year” in recognition of their courage, resilience, and steadfastness in the face of immense adversity.(KNS)