India, Oct. 14 -- The Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board's plan to introduce common themes for Friday sermons (khutbas) across its affiliated mosques, shrines and Jamia Masjids has triggered sharp Opposition in the Union Territory.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, PDP president Mehbooba Mufti, and the Muttahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU), headed by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, have rejected the move, calling it unacceptable interference in religious affairs.

The controversy erupted after verbal instructions were given to Maulanas, Muftis, Imams and Khateebs during a recent meeting in Srinagar to deliver a common sermon.

An executive magistrate associated with the Board, Ishtiyaq Mohi-ud-Din, during the meeting reportedly said the Board had issued a directive...