‘Valley’s chief cleric calls for moral reform, disciplined speech and revival of Ikhlaq’
Srinagar, Feb 25 : The chief religious cleric of Kashmir, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, on Wednesday voiced concern over declining social conduct and increasing verbal hostility, particularly on social media.
Addressing worshippers at Masjid Abu Bakr (RA) in Zoonimar, he said Ramzan is a time for inner transformation, urging people to purify their speech and uphold dignity, restraint and noble character.
In a statement issued to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), a spokesperson said Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir, Dr. Molvi Muhammad Umar Farooq, delivered a sermon at Masjid Abu Bakr (RA), Zoonimar, in connection with the blessed month of Ramzan, expressing concern over the decline in social conduct and the growing culture of verbal hostility in society.
Emphasizing Ikhlaq (noble character), Mirwaiz, as per the spokesperson stated that Ramzan is not merely about abstaining from food and drink, but about moral transformation.
“He said true fasting requires purification of speech, discipline of thought and refinement of behavior. He observed that if our speech remains filled with ridicule and hurtful words, then it reflects a deeper moral crisis that Ramzan calls upon us to correct.”
“Expressing sadness over the state of public discourse, particularly on social media, Mirwaiz noted that platforms meant for communication and constructive engagement have increasingly become spaces of abuse and personal attacks. He stressed that differences of opinion must not lead to disrespect, humiliation, or dehumanization,” said the spokesperson.
He further said, Quoting the Prophet (SAW) that a believer either speaks good or remains silent, Mirwaiz reminded the congregation that abusive language contradicts Islamic teachings and the spirit of Ramzan. He urged the community, particularly the youth, to uphold dignity, restraint, and compassion in their interactions so that Ramzan becomes a means of moral reform and social harmony—(KNO)
