Suhail Khan
Sopore, Dec 27: Amid growing concerns among parents in Kashmir regarding their children’s increasing involvement in drugs and other social issues, many youths are jeopardizing their futures and putting their families under great strain.
In Sopore, however, a pioneering initiative has emerged, where a group of children has not only made their parents proud but has also positively impacted the entire Kashmiri community.
On Sunday, a local Auqaf committee rewarded a group of children with new bicycles for their consistent commitment to offering the five daily prayers.
This marks the first time in Kashmir that an Auqaf committee has undertaken such an initiative, aimed at providing religious upbringing for children and helping them steer clear of negative social influences.
Speaking to Kashmir Despatch, Haji Imtiyaz Ahmad Ganai, a member of the Auqaf committee in Sopore, stated that the program was launched on October 13, 2024, with the aim of protecting the future of the younger generation, who are increasingly becoming involved in wrongful activities. The committee developed this initiative, encouraging local children aged 10 to 15 to participate in a 60-day program dedicated to praying five times a day and staying on the right path, thus setting an example for their peers.
Imtiyaz noted that children who completed the program and followed the prayer schedule were rewarded with new bicycles.
He emphasized that this is merely the beginning, and he believes it is essential for parents to provide proper guidance for their children so that they can establish themselves in society while bringing honor to their families and community. More importantly, this upbringing will help keep them away from wrongful actions.
Another committee member, Fayaz Ahmad, expressed that this is indeed a significant initiative taken by the local community. He suggested that from a different perspective, providing care for children while ensuring they receive religious education can lead to meaningful changes in their upbringing.
He stated, “When a child prays five times a day, they are less likely to associate with the wrong crowd and will always strive for a brighter future. Furthermore, they will grow into pious individuals who can bring pride to their parents.”
Mehraj ul Din A spokesperson from the Auqaf Committee in Nigeen Bagh Sopore told Kashmir Despatch that the youth are the future of the community, and their proper upbringing (Tarbiyah) is vital for building a better society. The committee also highlighted the broader responsibility of mosque management in addressing social challenges, including youth involvement in issues such as drug abuse and immorality.
“We believe it is our duty not only to manage the mosque but also to tackle the growing social issues that our youth face today. The purpose of this program is to bring the new generation closer to the mosque and nurture them spiritually,” he added.
Meanwhile, the initiative has been praised by all segments of society across the valley and has taken the internet by storm with positive feedback for the organizers.
Many social media users have described this initiative as an innovative way to connect the younger generation with religion, emphasizing that it is the need of the hour. The Auqaf Committee has truly embraced this responsibility.
Several users commented that this is how an Auqaf should operate, and it is time for other Auqaf committees to follow suit in order to protect future generations from social evils. An Auqaf must also pay attention to the social challenges facing society.
Suhail Khan is a filmmaker, content writer, and freelance journalist.
