Ahmadiyya Muslim Community denounces a new attack in Pakistan

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community has issued a new press release denouncing a new attack in Pakistan. This time it is a warning about the desecration of an Ahmadiyya mosque in the Pakistani country after threats were made by a member of the extremist group TLP. 

The press release is reproduced below: 

DESECRATION OF AN AHMADIYYA MOSQUE IN PAKISTAN FOLLOWING THREATS MADE BY A MEMBER OF THE EXTREMIST GROUP TLP 

THE MOSQUE DISPLAYED THE AHMADIYYA SLOGAN: "LOVE FOR ALL, HATE FOR NONE". 

We report with deep regret and condemn the desecration of the Ahmadiyya mosque in Kala Gojran, Jehlum, Pakistan. Police demolished the mosque's minarets, succumbing to pressure from members of the religious extremist group Tehreek-e-Labbaik of Pakistan (TLP). 

This deplorable act was carried out against the backdrop of a campaign of threats by extremist elements in the area against the Ahmadi mosques. A few days ago, Asim Ashfaq Rizvi, a member of Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), openly threatened the Jhelum police chief that if the minarets were not demolished within 20 days, he would mobilise the masses to demolish them by force.  

Subsequently, on 14 July 2023, the local Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) summoned the leadership of the Ahmadiyya mosque and demanded the voluntary destruction of the minarets, threatening police action if they refused. 

Despite efforts by the local Ahmadi community to engage in dialogue with the police over the legality of the construction of the minarets, their demands went unheeded. 

In a worrying turn of events, a squad of police arrived at the Ahmadiyya mosque at midnight. The officers confiscated the mobile phones of the Ahmadis present and detained them at the Jhelum city police station. They proceeded to tear down the minarets and desecrate the place of worship. They completely destroyed the CCTV system. After completing the destruction of the minarets, the detained members of the Ahmadiyya Community were released. 

It is important to note that the mosque, in addition to being a place of worship, prominently displayed the Ahmadi slogan "Love for all, hate for none" on its front wall. This motto represents the Ahmadiyya Community's commitment to caring, peace and inclusiveness, which transcends religious differences and fosters unity among all human beings. Ahmadis believe strongly in promoting love and compassion, and reject hatred and animosity towards any individual or group. 

This incident highlights the problems faced by religious minorities in Pakistan - especially the Ahmadis - who have been suffering from years of targeted persecution. The collaboration between law enforcement and extremist fanatics is disheartening and reflects a disturbing trend of hatred and intolerance. It serves as a cruel reminder of the obstacles faced by religious minorities and the urgent need for their protection and security. 

In response to this incident, the spokesperson for the Ahmadiyya Community of Pakistan said: "The Administration's decision to demolish the minarets of our place of worship, instead of protecting the Ahmadis, is deeply disheartening and a blatant violation of the rights of the Ahmadiyya Community. It is distressing to witness such measures being taken to appease hate-mongers, undermining the principles of religious freedom and tolerance". 

Further, the spokesperson stated, "We would like to highlight that the Supreme Court, through SMC No. 1 of 20142, issued guidelines for the protection of places of worship, emphasising the establishment of a specialised police force for their security. We urge the authorities to abide by these guidelines, thoroughly investigate this incident and hold those responsible accountable for their actions. The Ahmadiyya Community remains steadfast in its commitment to peace, harmony and its motto of 'Love for all, hate for none'". 

We therefore call on the international community to condemn these limitations on religious freedom and to put pressure on the Pakistani government to urgently implement measures to ensure the safety of Ahmadis. Upholding the fundamental rights of all people, including the Ahmadis, will foster an inclusive society and bring long-term benefits to Pakistan. Let us together advocate for equality, justice and the protection of religious minorities.