Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr. Moulvi Muhammad Umar Farooq, while addressing a gathering at Masjid Bilal, Residency Road, during the last Ashra of the holy month of Ramzan, emphasized that the spirit of Ramzan extends beyond fasting and ritual worship to include honesty, fairness and integrity in everyday dealings, particularly in trade and business. Mirwaiz said that Islam encourages trade as a means of living emphasising on halal practices - to conducting matters with honesty and fairness giving it a status of ibadat. Quoting the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), he said that truthful and trustworthy traders hold a high rank in Islam and barakah lies in honest trade. Referring to Kashmir’s long tradition of hospitality and inclusivity as a tourist destination , Mirwaiz said that as visitors increasingly come to the Valley, it is important that people, especially those engaged in hospitality and crafts businesses live up to the reputation of being honest and trustworthy Muslim traders that Kashmir has long been known for. Speaking to media persons present after the function, the Mirwaiz expressed deep concern over the rapidly developing situation in the Middle East. He said that in clear violation of all international law, United States and Israeli aggression are pushing the region towards a dangerous and destructive path as an independent country is being invaded , it’s civilian infrastructure targeted and innocent lives lost while the international community and institutions, including the United Nations, are unable to control their arbitrariness. Mirwaiz welcomed the granting of bail to senior Kashmiri leader Shabir Ahmad Shah by the Supreme Court of India, expressing hope that other political prisoners and youth will also be released so that their families may find relief. Expressing anguish over the continued restrictions on Jama Masjid Srinagar, the Mirwaiz said it was unfortunate that those who call themselves elected representatives of the people of Jammu and Kashmir ,whether in Parliament or the Assembly, including the Chief Minister choose to remain silent, displaying utter insensitivity towards the sentiments and fundamental rights of the people, when the Valley’s central place of worship is repeatedly locked by force and people are denied access even on important religious occasions. He said these representatives should do justice to their office and stand up to safeguard the fundamental rights of the people in whatever manner they can.