Srinagar, 22 March (H.S.): Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president and former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti today expressed anguish over the nature of prayers offered at Dargah Hazratbal, alleging that they were conducted for a “specific party” instead of the larger Muslim Ummah.

Extending Eid greetings to the people, Mufti said she prayed for an end to the hardships faced by Muslims across the world and urged people to support those in distress, particularly in Iran.

However, she said the prayers at the revered shrine left her “pained”.

“At Dargah, prayers are held for only a specific party. This pains me,” she told reporters, adding that such an important religious place should reflect the collective concerns of the Muslim Ummah.

She stressed that prayers should have been offered for the larger Muslim community, particularly for those affected by conflicts in regions such as Palestine and Iran, rather than being limited to any particular group.

Highlighting the spiritual and cultural significance of Hazratbal, Mehbooba said the shrine draws devotees from across Jammu and Kashmir who visit in search of solace and spiritual comfort.

“This place is revered by people across J&K. Instead of praying for the Ummah, prayers are being offered for people of a specific party,” she added.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Krishan Kumar