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As-Salaamu 'Alaikum wa Rahmatullaahi wa Barakatuhu.

Like many of you, I have received an invitation from the Mayor's Office to attend his annual end-of-the-year Interfaith Breakfast, on Friday, December 30, 2011.

As you know, each year on the last weekday of December, Mayor Michael Bloomberg invites diverse religious leaders from around New York City to a celebratory breakfast, to listen to him, and share prayers and presentations by a range of religious representatives. Until now,New York Muslim leaders have been happy to be part of this tradition. I have been present several times myself in both Manhattan (at the NY Public Library) and Brooklyn (at the Brooklyn Academy of Music)

However this year, although a considerable number of Muslim New Yorkers continue to strongly value the civic and interfaith relationships celebrated at this annual event, many of us have decided to stay away from it. Our purpose is to protest the mayor’s clear lack of sensitivity to our concerns, as shown by the now widely revealed, shocking and unprecedented scope of NYPD surveillance of the NYC Muslim community. From his public statements, the Mayor clearly supports such tactics.

A series of detailed reports by the Associated Press this fall, has made it clear that the NYPD has created links with the CIA, undertaken systematic profiling of our community businesses, student clubs and religious institutions (including Muslim elementary and secondary schools). This has been done  through the use of Demographic Units, and  an unknown number of informants dispatched throughout our peaceful communities. This revelation has damaged community trust in the police department.

The NYPD is responsible for such troubling actions at a time when both rogue police activities and massive stop and frisk policies, have caught public attention. After its troubling use of pepper spray against non-violent Occupy Wall Street protesters, and the unprecedented restriction of direct media coverage during the recent closure of the OWS encampment, the NYPD continues to show a serious lack of accountability.

Mr. Bloomberg is ultimately responsible for these policies. We cannot ignore this crisis in our relationship with his administration.  Though Muslim New Yorkers are sincerely committed to the security of our city, gradually increasing restrictions on our civil liberties have made us ever more aware of the importance of safeguarding our rights.

Just over the past few weeks, unconstitutional provisions for indefinite detention of citizens were passed by the  House and Senate, and now await the President's signature. Islamophobic media distortions have poisoned political speech, and the ongoing climate of fear-mongering has even impacted the training of both  local and federal law enforcement. Moreover, we know that these assaults on essential privacy and civil rights are not only Muslim concerns, but the human rights of all are increasingly at risk.

In the past, Mayor Bloomberg has shown he understands some similar concerns. During the politically-driven media and public hysteria about the Park 51 mosque and community center, the Mayor’s defense of religious freedom was most welcome. However there have been other times—as during the bombing of Gaza, when he failed to convey at least a measure of sympathy to both sides at another such end of the year interfaith breakfast—when many Muslims have felt that Mr. Bloomberg does not fully hear our voices or recognize his responsibility to represent all communities.

As Congressman Jerry Nadler admonished this month, “It is the mayor’s job... to ensure that the Police Department, under his command, obeys the laws and respects the rights of all New Yorkers.” Congressman  Nadler and other  elected officials have sent a request to Attorney General Eric H. Holder Jr. , asking him to investigate whether the police in New York and other cities had deprived OWS protesters of rights protected by the Constitution or by law, and to determine “what can be done to prevent future similar actions.” We strongly urge that this investigation should also include the lack of checks and balances over NYPD surveillance policies, but note that Mayor Bloomberg has already  quite bluntly disparaged even this call for accountability.

Further,  The American Civil Liberties Union recently revealed that  the FBI is using its extensive community outreach to Muslims and other groups,  to secretly gather intelligence around the nation in violation of federal law. Here at home, the Associated Press has reported that the NYPD has also compiled dossiers on the same Muslim leaders who have been most cordial and open to dialogue with police, by allowing officials to make presentations to our youth, and opening Mosques to visits.

These important revelations strongly indicate that behind the scenes of our public exchanges, our whole community is suspect in the eyes of the authorities. How are the Muslim people to feel safe and respected if their leaders prefer  bagels with Bloomberg, over the dignity of our community?

Now just yesterday, Congresswoman Judy Chu, Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), Congressman Bobby Scott, CAPAC Civil Rights Taskforce Chair, and Congressman Mike Honda, CAPAC Chair Emeritus, released statements regarding a letter they sent to the House Judiciary Committee, and the U.S. Department of Justice.

Their letters called  for a hearing and  investigation of the New York Police Department, regarding its revealed relationship with the CIA, collaborating on efforts to spy on Muslim communities in the New York City area. The letter was signed by 34 Members of Congress, including the Ranking Member of the House Homeland Security Committee and eight Members of the House Judiciary Committee.(SEE BELOW). As you can see, this is a very serious matter that is gaining momentum

We believe that the Mayor should fully embrace empowering a range of Muslim groups to be full and active partners in civic life, without compromising this through uncritical support for policies that damage that partnership. As New Yorkers, we are confident that our city would benefit from increased transparency in government and less divisive tactics, as well as from our honesty in addressing you in this matter.

In the spirit of recent community rallies on November 18 and December 15, we of the Majlis Ash-Shura Executive Committee are asking Muslim leaders to do the following:

1- TAKE A STAND AND BOYCOTT THIS YEAR'S EVENT

2- JOIN OUR CALL for our elected leaders to safeguard our freedoms through robust and independent oversight of police activities.

3- DEMAND THAT MAYOR BLOOMBERG express his clear and unambiguous public support for the rights and privacy of all New Yorkers, including Muslims; as well as his condemnation of all policies that profile and target communities and community groups.

4- LET US JOIN NOW THAT YOU  SUPPORT THIS INITIATIVE by contacting us at hafidda1@gmail.com, 347-3427004, or imamtalib@aol.com ,(212-662-4100)

5- JOIN US at an upcoming press conference to announce our collective stance.

I know from experience that there are those of you who are committed to engaging the Mayor and his representatives at any cost, and no matter what. However, the history of civil  rights struggle in this country is proof that no such strategy can be successful unless it represents the collective will of the people and their leaders - not individuals or special interest groups. I say again that the above letter signed by 34 members of Congress is evidence that there are leaders who are responding to this matter with the gravity it deserves. I pray that we as Muslim leaders will do the same.

We of the Majlis Ash-Shura of Metropolitan NY are calling for you to join with us in collective deliberation and action during these critical times. If you haven't done so already, then start with this event.

THE

A total of 90 countries applied to participate at the competition out of which 52 countries will definitely be participating at the event, the head of high council for the International Quran Competition Hojjatoleslam Ali Mohammadi mentioned in a press conference on Saturday.

The competition will be inaugurated by President Mahumd Ahmadinejad and Judiciary Chief Ayatollah Sadeq Larijani will attend the closing ceremony, he said.

On June 2, a congress will be held for female Quranic scholars. Also, the winners in the research section, to be selected from 450 Iranian and 20 foreign participants, will be announced at the event.

The 16-member jury consists of eight Iranian and eight foreign Quranic scholars, he mentioned.

The contest will be held in three sections, including recitation of the Quran, memorization of the Quran and articles on Quranic issues.

Tehran Times

Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu, Secretary General of the Organization of the Islamic Conference

THE Secretary General of the Organization of the Islamic Conference Professor Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu in is address to the 3rd Joint Management Team (JMT) meeting of the Atlas of Islamic World Science and Innovation in Istanbul on 11-12 June 2011, , called upon the project partners to undertake necessary steps for the smooth completion of the Atlas project, emphasizing that the project can be a forerunner for a wider scientific and technological collaboration between the OIC and the partners in Europe and elsewhere.

The Secretary General reiterated that one of the important objectives of the OIC Charter is to enhance and develop science and technology; and encourage research and cooperation in these fields. He added that the commitment of the OIC Member States to develop a society that values knowledge, research, and innovation is further borne out by the adoption of the Vision 1441H for Science and Technology by the 10th Islamic Summit in 2003 and the OIC Ten Year Program of Action (TYPOA) by the 3rd Extraordinary Makkah Summit in 2005.

The Atlas of the Islamic World Science and Innovation is a three-year partnership between the OIC, the Royal Society of London, the OIC Standing Committee for Scientific and Technological Cooperation (COMSTECH), the Islamic Development Bank (IDB), the Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ISESCO), Statistical, Economic and Social Research and Training Center for Islamic Countries (SESRIC), Nature magazine, the British Council, the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and the Qatar Foundation. Its objective includes mapping key trends and trajectories in science and technology-based innovation across the OIC Member States; and offering an objective and authoritative assessment of opportunities and barriers to their development and transition to an innovation-driven knowledge economy. Currently, country studies in respect of Malaysia, Pakistan, Egypt, Jordan and Qatar are nearing completion. Five other country studies for Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Iran, Senegal and Nigeria are planned for completion by December 2012.

BRUTAL attacks on Asian workers by anti-government protesters have been condemned by APOO (All Pakistanis Overseas Organization) described foreign & Pakistani workers as a key component of the national economy, but said many had been forced to leave their homes like 'refugees' to escape attacks.

More than 40 Asians had been attacked and injured by anti-government protesters last week, three of whom remain in a critical condition in hospital.

A police source said at least four Asian expats had died since anti-government protests started on February 14 - an Indian, a Pakistani and two Bangladeshis, although one is thought to have died after being hit by a stray bullet.

The situation was so bad that members of the Asian community took out an advert last Tuesday appealing for protection from "brutal and savage attacks".

"We are very upset with all the attacks on the poor Pakistanis and Bangladeshis," APOO  " GCC board of Governer Mr.  Zahid Sheikh on behalf of All Pakistanis Overseas Orgenaization GCC region .

"It is not fair that migrant workers who are not part of the conflict get attacked.

"I heard a group of people attacked cold stores and samboosa shops and said: "Close the shop or we will beat you."

"These people are voiceless; they are too scared to say anything so they close the shop.

"They can't work, they are too scared."

Mr. Zahid said those targeted were mainly Muslims from Pakistan and Bangladesh, who were earning low salaries and living in labour camps based in poor villages.

He said it was thought that anti-government protesters attacked them because they mistook them for naturalised citizens working for the police force or Bahrain Defence Force.

"They aren't in the army and they aren't Bahrainis, just Pakistanis and Bangladeshis who come to work in Bahrain," said APOO (ALL PAKISTANIS OVERSEAS ORGENAIZATION) GCC Board of Governer Mr. Zahid.

"In Islam you shouldn't beat weak people, you should take care of the poor and needy.

"These are people earning BD50 and BD60 salaries, but they got all anger directed at them."

More than 250 Pakistanis staying in downtown Manama have been given temporary shelter at the Pakistan Club, in Manama, and the Pakistan School, in Isa Town.

"It is very painful to hear that most of these workers have left their accommodation in the villages and are staying in temporary shelters," he said.

"But how long these people can live like refugees?"

He called on all members of the community to support and protect innocent workers who are being targeted by gangs.

"I'm asking people to be more compassionate to them," he said.

"Usually Bahrainis are very kind and love and appreciate people who work with them.

"I think if nothing is done they will start leaving and, when labourers leave, it becomes a crisis for the economy.

"I know the government can't take care of everything and the police are already working to the limit, but if you have a neighbour at least give him some support."

DELEGATES to the preparatory senior officials’ meeting for the twelfth session of the Islamic Summit Conference expressed their understanding of the decision to postpone the Islamic Summit, which had been scheduled for 15 March 2011 at Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, due to the prevailing circumstances. A new date would be chosen by Egypt as developments unfold, in coordination with the Secretary General of the Organization of the Islamic Conference.

The meeting held at the Headquarters of the OIC General Secretariat on 12 February 2011 expressed strong confidence on the success and effectiveness of the next summit in a way that would reflect Egypt’s capability and the solid potentials of its institutions.

In this context, the participants expressed their appreciation and pride in the Egyptian people and the hope that the developments in Egypt would take the country to the desired progress and all that would be in the best interest of the Egyptian people.

In his speech to the meeting, OIC Secretary General Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu asserted that the Muslim world was witnessing historic changes in many of its countries. Contending with these changes, he said, required a high degree of wisdom and sound judgment.

Ihsanoglu expressed his congratulations to the Egyptian people at these distinctive historic moments for the triumph of their will and national choices and wished them the progress and prosperity they aspire.

The Secretary General also mentioned a similar crisis experienced by Tunisia, which ended peacefully thanks to the efforts, capabilities and sacrifices of its great people. This, he said, underscored the urgent need to accelerate the process of manifesting the people’s ambitions for good governance, rule of law, promotion of human rights, expanded political participation space and comprehensive development.

Ihsanoglu pointed out that the OIC would spare no efforts in helping the brothers in Egypt and Tunisia to meet the challenges of the coming period. He explained that the fundamental principles of the OIC Charter provide for these values and that the Ten-Year Program of Action was a forerunner in drawing Member States’ attention to the political challenges facing the Muslim world.

THE Organisation of the Islamic Conference (OIC) is privileged to join the International community in commemorating the International Day for the elimination of violence against Women. This Day (25 November) provides us with an opportunity to renew our common resolve to continue efforts to eliminate violence against women including domestic violence. The important role of women in overall socio-economic developments in different capacities including their vital role in the family as a mother and wife cannot be overstated. Their contributions however, will remain unappreciated unless we can ensure to protect them against violence. It is unfortunate that we still find women in all societies including the most developed ones, being subjected to beating, torture and rape. Most of these crimes are not reported.

Although we have witnessed some encouraging improvements in the overall conditions of women including alleviating violence against women in its various forms and manifestations, the situation in many parts of the world particularly the developing and least developed countries remains gloomy as women are vulnerable to the threats and challenges in this field.

The observance of the day reminds us of the necessity to strengthen our efforts to combat against this phenomenon which violates some basic human rights and runs contrary to the basic principles and teachings of Islam that strongly reject all forms of violence against women and uphold their rights. We must stand united against this evil phenomenon through all available means in order to make sure that women are protected against  any violation of their rights particularly against all forms of violence that are guaranteed by the International laws and conventions as well as national laws and legislations.

It was in accordance with the Cairo Declaration on Human rights in Islam and the OIC Ten-Year Program of Action adopted by the 3rd Islamic Summit Conference that the OIC Plan of Action for Advancement of Women (OPAAW) was adopted by the Second Ministerial Conference held in Cairo in November 2008. In the same spirit we have established a specialized institution for the advancement of women in Cairo.

I am sure that effective implementation of the OPAAW alongside other relevant international instruments will help us overcome difficulties that hinder our efforts to reach the aspired goal of eliminating the violence against women.

It is our common responsibility to work together and step up our efforts to help eradicate violence against women.

OIC News Letter

MINA was in bloom as the pilgrims shed their white ihram and donned festive clothing. While Muslims outside of Mina celebrated Eid Al-Adha on Tuesday, for the pilgrims, Wednesday was really the first day that they were relaxed and rejoicing. Some of the men wore simple shirts and trousers, but others were dressed to impress. The Yemenis wore futahs and caps. The Afghans were in turbans and coats.

The Sudanese and the Nigerians towered above the crowds in their colorful jalabiyya. In Saudi Arabia, most women wear black outdoors. But at Mina, the women wore their local fashions proudly. Egyptian and Syrian women were quite fashionable in color coordinated outfits from head to toe. The gentle Malaysian ladies had changed into scarves in lovely pastel shades. Despite the change in outfit though, the Malaysians still stood out from all other pilgrims. These pilgrims study about the Haj extensively before coming to Saudi Arabia. They are taught to walk in small, careful steps and to move as a close group, without pushing or behaving aggressively. Everyone respects them for their caring manner.

* * * *

• Adding to the delightful ambiance was the excellent weather. The sun was under cloud cover for most of the day and there was a soft breeze blowing throughout Mina. The pilgrims were much less stressed than on Tuesday. We heard one man say to another, “Oh, I recognize this place. This was where I got lost yesterday.”

Praise to Allah! Everyone finally seemed to have found their camps. Yesterday was a day for pilgrims to search out friends and relatives located in other parts of the tent city. Many times we saw pilgrims greeting one another like long lost brothers. One major topic of discussion is the expense of Haj. This is a particular issue with Saudi pilgrims. One pilgrim, Anas Shuabi, told us that in 1995 he drove from Jeddah with his entire family in his GMC all the way to Arafat. They camped in the GMC and the entire trip cost less than SR1,000. Now it costs a minimum of SR10,000 per person to come for Haj. This is in part because Saudis are very particular about privacy and generally do not share tents with others.

* * * *

• Even though the number of lost pilgrims was greatly reduced, there were still many elderly pilgrims that needed help getting from place to place. After the Boy Scouts, the most organized NGO assisting the pilgrims during their stay in Mina is the India Fraternity Forum (IFF). This group of 1,100 volunteers in their blue shirts and orange jackets are known to pilgrims throughout the tent city. For many years they have been coming to Makkah and Mina during Haj, particularly to assist the elderly and lost pilgrims. Abdul Ghani Abdul Rahman, assistant coordinator with the group, remarked that this year the IFF was supported by the World Assembly of Muslim Youth (WAMY) and the Consulate General of India in Jeddah. The IFF volunteers are drawn from 12 Indian states and speak languages from Hindi and Urdu to Malayalam and English. Before Haj, group members came to Mina and identified every national pilgrim camp on maps. They also worked out several different routes to each of the major camps. Then they returned to Jeddah and printed 1,500 of the maps.

These have proved to be very useful as they enable the IFF volunteers to direct pilgrims to any camp. Their broad language abilities make it possible for them to help most pilgrims. Those that they cannot direct due to age or issues in communication, they take in wheelchairs back to the correct camps. The IFF coordinator said that the removal of all small vehicles from Mina has been a relief, since this has reduced congestion. However, he urged the authorities to allow the volunteer groups to use autorickshaws to help elderly pilgrims back to their camps. “Yesterday I had to take two pilgrims all the way across Mina to their camps and it was exhausting,” said Abdul Ghani. “I had to sit down and rest for an hour. The temperature will only go higher in coming years and the elderly cannot walk in the heat. I could take 10 pilgrims with an autorickshaw in the time it takes me to transport one or two by wheelchair. The authorities could allow us to use this transport on some of the side streets and it would make quite a difference.”

* * * *

• This Haj has been free of any outbreaks of disease. Nevertheless, hospitals in Mina remain on high alert. There are multitudes of health clinics in Mina dispensing first aid and aspirin. These clinics are supported by four hospitals — Mina Al-Tawari, Mina Al-Wadi, Mina Al-Jadeed and Mina Al-Jisr. When pilgrims fall ill, their Haj services agencies contact the Saudi Red Crescent, which sends ambulances immediately. At Mina Al-Jisr Hospital, Dr. Entessar Al-Tayhouni, a respectable Saudi from Jeddah, was in charge. The hospital director said that he was quite familiar with the health issues most often faced by pilgrims as he was at the same hospital last year as assistant director.

Al-Tayhouni advised that there were more than 100 doctors and 100 nursing staff assigned to the 150-bed hospital. They are paid by the Ministry of Health for their five days of work in Mina during Haj, but they all vie for the privilege of coming to help pilgrims. Mina Al-Jisr Hospital is furnished with modern medical equipment which is refreshed and upgraded annually. The hospital mostly receives cases of respiratory distress, appendicitis and blood sugar control problems. They are able to stabilize cardiac patients, but if open heart surgery is needed then the patient is transported to Al-Noor Hospital in Makkah.

* * * *

• After a visit to the hospital, it was time to move on to the post office to pick up some souvenirs. The best Haj souvenirs are the special postage stamps issued to commemorate the occasion. Sameer M. Nahhas, general manager of Saudi Post for Makkah Region, showed this diarist the three stamps for this year. Priced at SR2 each or SR6 for the set, the stamps show Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah at prayer; the new Makkah Clock Tower; and the Mashair Railway. “Not only do we sell these postage stamps, but we also sell postcards for SR2. Those have photographs such as the Mount of Mercy and Prophet’s Mosque. We set up temporary post offices in Arafat just for the wuquf,” explained Nahhas. “The pilgrims flood in from morning to night that day. They want to send a simple note back to loved ones at home showing the Arafat stamp to emphasize that they were there.”

The post offices are spread throughout Mina for the duration of the Haj and Nahhas said that business is booming. E-mail is popular at other times, but during Haj the personal note is still most desired. Nahhas invited all Muslims to come to the main Makkah post office in Gazza district where collections of the Haj stamps from previous years are on display and may be purchased. Readers and philatelists can write to him at snahhas@sp.com.sa. “Three years back I joined Saudi Post from STC,” said Nahhas.

“Both of these companies are in the business of enabling communication. The message written in longhand though is more personal and lasting than a phone call. I am sure there will be a thrill when those postcards are received. They will be shared over and over again. Then they’ll be tucked away in a box or drawer and taken out from time to time to be re-read and enjoyed. I am very pleased that Saudi Post helps to create so many wonderful memories.”

Arab News

ARAFAT: Nearly three million pilgrims on Monday stood on Mount Arafat, also known as the Mount of Mercy, and the plains surrounding it from where Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) gave his farewell sermon more than 14 centuries ago.

It was from here that the Last Prophet’s Companions set out across the four corners of the world preaching the simple message of Islam. The Prophet’s last sermon, simple and pure as it was, became the magnet for millions to join the fold of Islam. The Prophet preached about the oneness of Allah and talked about piety being the only barometer of one’s closeness to Allah.

The men and women who formed a massive stream of white on Monday got on to any type of transport they could find or just set out on foot to seek forgiveness.

The “wuquf” or standing of pilgrims draped in two white unsewn pieces of cloth in the plains of Arafat is the climax of the annual pilgrimage. It was also an extraordinary symbol of Islam’s unity and equality. One of the focuses of pilgrims in Arafat is Masjid Al-Namirah, from where the Prophet addressed his Companions during his farewell pilgrimage, an act that was reenacted by the Kingdom’s Grand Mufti Abdul Aziz Al-Asheikh on Monday.

In his sermon, Al-Asheikh urged Muslims to fear Allah both in private and public, and to follow the Sunnah of the Prophet to achieve success in life. He also discussed major problems faced by Muslims across the world, in addition to outlining Islamic creed and deeds.

He stressed that terrorism needs to be rooted out. “The cause that helps the growth of terrorism should be removed and the injustices faced by oppressed societies should be stopped, its perpetrators should be punished regardless of whether they are individuals or groups,” he said.

“While all agreed that terrorism is the worst evil, the real issue is not terrorism alone but there are also evils such as poverty, unemployment, ill health and the consequences of natural disasters,” Al-Asheikh added.

He said the abuse of the Last Prophet in the West should be countered by highlighting his humanity, love and mercy. “Help your Prophet by spreading the radiant image of his personality of mercy and affection and by emulating those qualities in your daily life and inviting people to it. That is the fitting reply to those who make false charges against him,” he said.

Al-Asheikh called on Muslims not to allow their enemies to draw them into conflicts and bloodshed that lay their economies to waste. He also urged the people of the West to adhere to the principles of human rights and justice that they believe in. “We hear about escalating violations against Muslims and their faith and other important Islamic features. Such practices do not help achieve stability and will only worsen the situation and spread hostility and hatred,” he said.

Islam is a religion of moderation and does not support any kind of extremism. It is a religion of universal character fit for all times and people and does not approve of discrimination based on color or nationality. Its values have withstood opposition for around 1,400 years, he said. “Islam is the power of tomorrow and the civilization of the future. It is a religion of justice. It is against a globalization that empowers the strong and rich over the weak and poor with no concern for unemployment, poverty and rising prices.”

He said stability and security could only be achieved by obeying the rulers. He also called on the Iraqi people to respond to the call made by Custodian of the Two Holy Mosque King Abdullah to stop bloodshed and bury their differences, and urged the people of Sudan to unite for their own welfare.  Outside the mosque, people spent the day in worship and supplication, praying for their needs, and also for the welfare of the Kingdom and its rulers, particularly Makkah Gov. Prince Khaled Al-Faisal for the excellent services provided to pilgrims this year.

Saudi national Awad Bafaqer sobbed uncontrollably while seeking forgiveness from God. “Islam is the best religion in the world and I am proud to be a Muslim. I have only one prayer on my lips: May God unite all Muslims. If we are united, we will be victorious here and in the hereafter,” he said. Bafaqer had arrived in Arafat straight from Jeddah.

Getting to Arafat was not without difficulties for many pilgrims. However, despite the hardships, every pilgrim Arab News spoke to told of how reaching the plains of Arafat was a dream come true. “Arafat is very peaceful, I feel a connection with God. Today is the day of Haj and today I feel like I can speak to Allah and find a connection where I feel like I’ve been heard,” said 44-year-old Imtiyaz Bobat of London. “I’ve been praying for my late younger sister. She had meningitis and she passed away recently. My whole Haj has been for her. I’ve been praying to Allah to forgive her for any shortcomings she may have had and also for her very young children. I’ve been praying to Allah to help me become more pious so I can be a better Muslim and of course my parents who have had to endure the loss of a child. I’ve been praying for an end to sufferings in Palestine, Afghanistan and everywhere else in the world. Insha Allah we will have peace,” he said.

“It’s been a very huge day for me, lots of people here, as they make dua and ask Allah for forgiveness. There’s been so much unity here, obviously it’s such a peaceful place and everyone is here with one intention,” said fellow British pilgrim Salim Bhayat of Coventry, UK.

“You have maulanas performing prayers in the background. It’s my first Haj, I’ve never done Umrah and I’ve come on my own. I’ve been praying for my family and friends and peace in the world. That’s all I want in my life. Obviously, you make your own connection with Allah, it’s an individual experience. It’s unexplainable. No words can explain how you feel inside,” he said.

“Praying in Masjid Al-Namirah does not have a special significance while performing the pilgrimage. But everyone wants to pray in it. And I feel myself fortunate enough to get a chance to see this majestic mosque and pray inside it,” said Abdur Rehman Abdul Wahab from Kuwait.

“Haj is never tiring but always rewarding. Whoever performs it becomes as pure and innocent as a newborn child. This is Allah’s way of showering His choicest blessings on the believers,” said Saleh Al-Sheikh, a Syrian-American.

“I’m here to answer the call of Allah and pray for peace and tranquility in my motherland. Those planning to harm us should never succeed in their mission. I also prayed for the unity of the Muslim Ummah, which is the need of the hour,” said Iranian Haider Ali Najafi.

“Arafat reminds me of our beloved Prophet. He asked us to undertake this journey and here we are. We have been undertaking this journey for the last 14 centuries and Muslims will continue to do so until the Day of Judgment,” said Muzaffar Hikayati from the United Arab Emirates.

Local food and drink companies distributed their products for free, and each time distribution trucks opened their doors hundreds flocked to catch food and drinks thrown from them. At sunset, pilgrims started their journey to Muzdalifah where they will spend the night and collect pebbles to perform the symbolic stoning of Satan on the following three days.

Calling for the liberation of Palestine, Al-Sudais said now is the time for Palestinian factions to bury their differences.

“These differences have only added to the miseries of our brothers and sisters in Palestine. This inhuman blockade has made life hellish for them. Now is the time for Muslim countries to unify their ranks and liberate Palestinians from the shackles of this inhuman bondage,” he said. “All differences among regional countries should be and can be resolved in the true spirit of Islam. The best example of our unity is this congregation in which every Muslim from every corner is united through the love of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the Holy Qur’an.”

Al-Sudais described Palestine as the single biggest problem confronting the nation of Islam.

“Every day brings a new form of misery for them,” he said, breaking down in tears. “O Allah, unite all Muslim nations.”

The congregation responded with a vociferous “Aameen.”

The imam repeatedly stressed the value of unity. “Our divisions have given our adversaries the ruse to exploit us. We are fragmented despite being in such a large number. Unity is the key to our well-being. The message of Haj is unity. Let us pray for the unification of Muslims throughout the planet.”

The imam also stressed the need for hope and optimism with trust in Allah at all times of adversity. He quoted the Holy Qur’an: “And never give up hope in God’s soothing mercy: Truly no one despairs of God’s soothing mercy except those who have no faith.”

Al-Sudais congratulated the pilgrims for undertaking the most important journey of their lives. “This was your lifelong dream. You always wanted to be here. You always wanted to carry out this important task of Haj. Well, here you are in the holy land. You are lucky. It is all due to the blessings of Allah the Almighty. I congratulate you. From here you should take the most important message of Islam and that is tawheed (the oneness of Allah).”

Referring to Iraq, he said the cycle of unending wars has destroyed that nation. “Again, it is the lack of unity and petty issues that have been responsible for the tragedy in Iraq,” he said.

Al-Sudais thanked the Saudi leadership, led by Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah, for landmark projects to provide ease and comfort to the pilgrims during the various rituals of Haj.

“The train services for pilgrims that go into operation this year are a remarkable achievement. May Allah protect this leadership, and may He grant them long life,” he said.

The Makkah Metro is ready to service pilgrims during this Haj. Saudi Arabia has poured billions of riyals into various infrastructure projects in Makkah, Mina and Arafat. The cost of such projects has never been passed onto the pilgrims.

Al-Sudais also paid rich tribute to all those Saudis who have dedicated themselves into the service of pilgrims. “You deserve congratulations for helping the guests of God. Allah has bestowed this rare honor on you to help the pilgrims, and you have not let the pilgrims down. May Allah keep you safe.”

“I've never experienced such calmness,” retired Nigerian military officer Salisu Ali said of Al-Sudais’ sermon. “I don’t speak Arabic nor do I understand it, but the verses that he was quoting from the Qur’an are all too familiar to us. And I could understand in what context he was quoting them. I couldn’t control my tears because everyone was crying. The sheikh moved us all.”

An aged Pakistani woman, Begum Jahanara Sarwat, said she never felt such peace.
By SIRAJ WAHAB | ARAB NEWS

“We keep hearing all these bad stories and depressing events," she said. "However, today I did not feel weak at all. Why should I? We are this many people,” she added as she gestured to the throng of faithful. “Is it possible for our enemies to destroy us? These are momentary setbacks, my son. Don’t lose hope. Allah se acche ki ummeed rakho (Expect good from Allah)."

Every corner of the Grand Mosque was filled by pilgrims as early as 10 a.m. even though the time for Friday prayer was scheduled for 12:05 p.m. The relatively hot weather did not deter the pilgrims from performing the prayer on roads and in alleyways surrounding the mosque.

The congregation thinned an hour after the prayer, and outside the mosque pigeons fluttered past the minarets and swooped down on any vacant space available in the mosque’s massive courtyard.

Spirituality combined with anxiety was evident on many pilgrims’ faces. With just 24 hours remaining before pilgrims begin the trek to the valley of Mina in the first leg of the five-day journey, the pilgrims’ minds are clearly focused on the rituals that they will perform in fulfillment of their obligations.

“We are a little anxious. Being in Makkah is an overwhelming experience," said Syed Abbas, an elderly Indian man making his first pilgrimage. "There are so many people here. We come from a small town. Even performing circumambulation or tawaf is a big task."

SRINAGAR:

Syed Ali Shah Geelani also denounced the crackdowns by occupation authorities against different Hurriyat leaders. He said that India wanted to suppress the Kashmiris’ ongoing "Quit Kashmir Movement" through use of brute force but it would never succeed in its nefarious designs.

APHC Chairman, Syed Ali Shah Geelani had said that New Delhi had used every brute tactic to prevent the people from raising voice for their inalienable right. “The people of Kashmir will continue their just struggle despite all odds till its logical conclusion,” he vowed.

Syed Ali Shah Geelani expressed concern over the deteriorating health of illegally detained Kashmiri Hurriyat leaders and activists, languishing in different jails and interrogation centres of India and the occupied valley. He demanded of their immediate unconditional release.

The authorities placed the APHC Chairman, Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and many other APHC senior leaders. Meanwhile, authorities have also not lifted the siege of the house of Syed Ali Shah Geelani, who was arrested after he came from New Delhi on October 24 after attending a seminar there and was put him under house arrest at his Hyderpora residence in Srinagar.

APHC leader and the Acting Chairman of Jammu and Kashmir Peoples League (JKPL), Mukhtar Ahmad Waza has expressed serious concern over the plight of illegally detained pro-freedom leaders and activists, languishing in different jails in and outside the territory.

Mukhtar Ahmad Waza in a statement issued in Srinagar said that the unlawfully detained Hurriyet leaders and activists including Yasmeen Raja, Muhammad Ashraf Sehrai, Mian Abdul Qayoom and Ghulam Nabi Shaheen were suffering from different ailments due to the lack of proper medical facilities in jails.

He urged India to give up its unrealistic stance on Kashmir and take concrete steps to resolve the dispute in accordance with the Kashmiris’ aspirations. “India must acknowledge Kashmir’s disputed nature and amicably settle it according to the people’s wishes by giving them the right of Self-Determination,” he added.

Waza strongly denounced the continued curfew in Sheer, Delina and Palhalan and accentuated that India would not be able to suppress Kashmiris’ just struggle through use of brute force. He appealed the United Nations, Organisation of the Islamic Conference (OIC) and human rights organisations including Amnesty International and Asia Watch to put pressure on India for early settlement of the lingering dispute.

The Chairman of Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Freedom League (JKPFL), Muhammad Farooq Rehmani, has denounced the gross human rights violations perpetrated by Indian troops in Occupied State of Jammu & Kashmir (OSJK).

Muhammad Farooq Rehmani in a statement issued in Islamabad said that New Delhi was utilising every brute tactic to suppress the ongoing "Quit Kashmir Movement". “Kashmiris have rendered matchless sacrifices for liberation movement and they will continue their struggle till complete success,” he added.

He said that the occupation authorities were illegally detaining the innocent Kashmiri people for raising voice against the Indian state terrorism in the territory. Rehmani said that the day was not away when the people of the occupied territory would get rid of Indian bondage.

The Chairman of JKPFL reiterated the pledge to continue liberation movement despite all odds. He also demanded of the United Nations to resolve the longstanding Kashmir dispute in accordance with Kashmiris’ aspirations so that permanent peace could be established in South Asia.

The Chairman of Kashmir Centre Brussels, Barrister Abdul Majeed Tramboo has denounced the use of brute force against innocent Kashmiris in Pattan by Indian troops. Barrister Abdul Majeed Tramboo in a statement issued in Brussels said that the occupation troops resorted to heavy lathi charge and severely injured Kashmiri youth, doctors and teachers.  “On one hand, the occupation authorities have unleashed reign of terror across the territory and, on the other, India is talking about negotiations,” he added.

He expressed concern over the harassment of Hurriyat leaders, illegal detention of pro-freedom leaders and restrictions imposed by the occupation authorities on Kashmiris to perform religious duties at their respective holy places.

Paying glowing tributes to Arif Ahmad Matta, a Kashmiri, resident of Chankral Muhallah, who was martyred by Indian troops, he said that the troopers were using brute tactics to suppress peoples’ struggle against illegal Indian occupation.

A teenaged boy, who was battling for life after being hit by a teargas shell of paramilitary forces during protests last year, succumbed to injuries, today.

The 14-year-old, Mohammad Aarif Butt died on Friday morning at his residence in Habbakadal area of the Srinagar city and was laid to rest at Eidgah graveyard.

He was hit by a tear smoke shell fired by paramilitary forces to quell protests at Maisuma near Budshah Chowk in October last year. He had later slipped into coma at the hospital. He was shifted to his house, where he was under treatment, for the past several months.

At least 20 civilians including a local doctor were injured when troopers and police went on a beating spree indiscriminately in Pattan area of Occupied State of Jammu & Kashmir (OSJK). Six persons were also detained from the neighbouring Palhallan area.

The locals of Pattan said that troopers barged into the residential houses and a girls’ school and beat inmates and teachers. The residents stated, the troops, comprising 29 Rashtriya Rifles, Central Reserve Police Force and Special Operations Group, brandishing sticks and sophisticated weapons, started house to house searches in different Pattan localities like Gojri Mohalla, Jamia Mohalla, Wani Mohalla, Ahangar Mohalla and beat the inmates without any reason.

The troopers also smashed windowpanes and damaged houses. They said that due to intimidation by troops, many youth had to flee from the area to save themselves from getting beaten. The residents said that the beating spree started on Wednesday evening when troops and police laid siege of Bazaar Mohalla, Kandhar Mohalla, Gashiwara, Teli Mohalla, Gori Mohalla, Wani Mohalla and Sofi Mohalla.

In Palhallan, the locals said, police and CRPF raided Tantray Mohalla and detained six youth and beat people without any rhyme. The CRPF troopers along with army also barged into Girls Middle School, Goshbug, and went on a beating spree. “Panic spread in the entire school,” an eyewitness said adding, “They beat up teachers.”

Hospital authorities in Pattan said they treated six people with one having grievous injuries. They said Abdul Majid Gojri received six stitches in his head as he was severely beaten by the troopers. At Bakhipora Rafiabad, teachers in a Government school were threatened by police after the former refused to show them the attendance register.

Forceful anti-India and pro-liberation demonstrations rocked Srinagar, Budgam, Baramulla, Sopore and other towns of OSJK. People took to streets, shouting high-pitched slogans to press their demand of freedom from Indian bondage. The troops fired teargas shells and resorted to heavy baton charge to disperse demonstrators. Clashes were witnessed all along the day between the protesters and Indian police in Noorbagh, Qamarwari, Nowhatta, Habba Kadal, Sopore and Baramulla.

In Hajan, liberation leaders addressing a protest demonstration asked India to accept ground realities and come forward to resolve the Kashmir dispute in accordance with the Kashmiris’ aspirations. APHC Chairman, Syed Ali Shah Geelani’s house and his offices in Haiderpora were besieged by Indian paramilitary troopers, preventing him and his party workers from offering Juma prayers.

The authorities also placed APHC leader, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and other leaders under house arrest. Due to restrictions, the Mirwaiz Umar Farooq could not offer Juma prayers for the 9th consecutive Friday.

A teenaged boy, battling for life after being hit by a teargas shell of paramilitary forces during pro-liberation protests died, today, at Habba Kadal in Srinagar. An Indian trooper was killed in an attack at Krankshun in Sopore.