Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Kashmir's chief cleric and separatist leader, explained his decision to remove 'Hurriyat chairman' from his X bio, stating social media is his remaining connection to people, especially with restrictions on his movement and access to the Jama Masjid pulpit. This change has ignited debate in the Valley regarding the Hurriyat's historical significance, a group banned in March 2025 for alleged involvement in subversive and secessionist activities.