ISLAMABAD: Pakistan strongly condemned reports of what it described as intrusive profiling of mosques and mosque management committees in Indian illegally occupied Jammu & Kashmir, calling the move a serious breach of religious freedom and fundamental human rights.
In this regard, the Foreign Office (FO) expressed concern after reports emerged that police authorities in the occupied valley had distributed detailed forms seeking financial and personal information from mosques and religious seminaries.
The FO described the development as a “blatant intrusion into religious affairs,” warning that such actions undermine the internationally recognised right to freedom of religion and belief.
It said the reported measures appeared to be part of a broader pattern aimed at intimidating and marginalising the Muslim population of the occupied territory.
The forms reportedly sought extensive details from mosque leaders, seminary teachers and members of management committees. These included information related to identity documents, bank accounts, property ownership and digital presence.
Notably, the forms also asked for sensitive data such as passport details, SIM card information and mobile phone identifiers, as well as the religious sect of each mosque.
Furthermore, Foreign Office said the compulsory collection of personal data and sectarian information amounted to “systematic harassment,” alleging that it was designed to instil fear among worshippers and disrupt the free practice of faith.
The statement further claimed that the selective focus on mosques and Muslim clergy reflected discriminatory policies rooted in ideological motives.
The issue has gained renewed attention in light of previous warnings by United Nations experts, who in recent months have flagged concerns over human rights conditions in the region.
