Overnight Demolition on Murree Road
Authorities in Islamabad have confirmed that the Madani Mosque and its attached madrassa, located on Murree Road, were demolished overnight between 9 and 10 August.
The operation was carried out jointly by the district administration and the Capital Development Authority (CDA). Officials stated that it was part of a pre-agreed plan, finalized after consultations with the mosque’s administration.
According to government sources, the decision to relocate the mosque from what they described as an “unauthorised site” was taken in January 2025 during a Ministry of Interior meeting. The plan was to move the mosque and madrassa to a purpose-built facility in the Margalla Town area.
New Purpose-Built Mosque in Margalla Town
To implement the decision, the CDA constructed a modern mosque complex in Margalla Town. The facility includes a spacious prayer hall, ablution areas, and other basic amenities.
Authorities say the project cost approximately 37 million Pakistani rupees (around USD 133,000).
Officials maintain that the mosque’s administration was kept fully informed during the relocation process. The demolition, they insist, took place only after religious activities had shifted to the new premises.
Minister of State for Interior, Talal Chaudhry, said in a press briefing that the relocation was carried out “with the consent of the management” and that “the new facility offers better amenities than the previous site.”
Government Urges Calm, Warns Against Misinformation
Mr. Chaudhry appealed to the public not to believe “rumours and unfounded claims” circulating online. He assured that any mosque or madrassa built on a green belt or other government-owned land would only be relocated after consultation with religious scholars and administrators.
He also warned that “any attempt to disturb public order will not be tolerated.”
The minister’s remarks appear aimed at countering criticism from some religious circles, who have accused the government of acting unilaterally.
Social Media Reaction and Religious Leaders’ Criticism
Despite official claims of consultation, videos shared widely on social media show the mosque being demolished at night. In some clips, workers can be seen planting saplings where the mosque once stood.
The footage has prompted criticism from certain religious leaders and groups. They have questioned why the demolition was carried out under cover of darkness and whether the process was as consensual as the government claims.
Some clerics have also raised concerns about the broader implications for other mosques built on public land, fearing that similar operations could follow.
Broader Context: Disputes Over Mosques on Public Land
In Pakistan, disputes over religious structures built on encroached or government-owned land are not new. The issue often involves balancing urban planning laws with community sensitivities.
Relocating a mosque, even with an alternative site provided, can be contentious due to the strong emotional and religious attachment worshippers have to a specific location.
Past attempts to remove such structures have sometimes led to protests and, in rare cases, violent confrontations. Authorities have increasingly stressed the need for consultation to avoid public unrest.
Moving Forward
For now, prayers at the new Madani Mosque in Margalla Town are reportedly ongoing. Officials hope the upgraded facilities will win over congregants.
However, with religious leaders voicing doubts and social media amplifying criticism, the government faces the challenge of ensuring that the narrative of “consensual relocation” is accepted by the wider public.
Whether this case becomes a precedent for future mosque relocations—or a flashpoint for further controversy—remains to be seen.
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