Srinagar, May 27 -- Srinagar - Authorities on Wednesday disallowed Eid prayers at the historic Eidgah and Srinagar's Jama Masjid for the eighth consecutive year while also placing Kashmir's head priest, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, under house arrest, drawing sharp criticism and fresh allegations of curbs on religious freedoms in the Valley.

The decision meant that thousands of worshippers were once again unable to offer congregational Eid prayers at two of Kashmir's most significant religious sites, where large gatherings on important Islamic occasions have historically been a part of the Valley's religious and social life. Congregational Eid prayers were, however, held peacefully at other major mosques and shrines across Kashmir.

Reacting to ...