Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, who was scheduled to officiate the Nikah of 60 orphan girls at a mass marriage event organised by the Al Noor Trust in Bemina, was prevented from attending by authorities due to his house arrest, which has been in place since September 2, according to his office. Although he could not be present in person, the prominent religious leader delivered a virtual address during the event, praising the efforts of the Al Noor Trust and its chairman.
In his online speech, Mirwaiz emphasised the importance of simplicity in Islamic weddings, urging attendees to view Nikah as a spiritual act rather than a commercial transaction. He stressed the need to avoid extravagant displays of wealth and wasteful customs, advocating for support of charitable initiatives and adherence to Islamic modesty in marriage ceremonies.
Mirwaiz expressed his disappointment at not being able to participate directly, criticising the government’s decision to prevent his attendance. He lamented, “It is deeply regrettable that I could not be present at an event that embodies the spirit of simplicity and communal support within the Muslim Ummah.”
Despite his absence, the mass marriage event proceeded successfully, highlighting the continued efforts of social organisations to support orphans and uphold Islamic values in the region, even amidst ongoing political restrictions. Last season, the Trust facilitated the marriage of 100 couples.
