IHC Allows Construction Of Hindu Temple In Islamabad
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has disposed of three petitions filed against the construction of a Hindu temple in Islamabad. The court has observed that the construction of a worship place requires mandatory approval.
The counsel for the petitioner argued that permission by the federal government and funding of the construction of a temple in Islamabad Capital Territory is in violation of Article 2-A of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, 1973. He added that there were already three temples in the areas of Rawalpindi and Islamabad, which duly cater to the needs of the Hindu community.
He also termed the project ‘waste of money’ during the time of coronavirus pandemic.
However, the court noted that there was no bar for the allottee to construct the temple on its own in light of the fact that under Article-20. The minorities are entitled to profess, practice and propagate their religion with a freedom which is subject to law, public order, and morality.
Pakistani court gives go ahead for construction of Hindus’ Mandar in Islamabad, rejecting all petitions filed against stoppage of Temple. Islamabad High Court asked authorities/CDA to take appropriate actions in this regard.
— Zahid Gishkori (@ZahidGishkori) July 7, 2020
A few days back, Prime Minister Imran Khan had approved Rs100 million for the construction of the first Hindu temple in the capital.
Construction of temple halted citing legal reasons:
The construction of the Hindu temple was halted soon after its groundbreaking ceremony. It has drawn sharp reactions from various quarters in Pakistan. Some have been strongly opposing the decision while many extremist elements issuing threats to those supporting the move.
Last week, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) stopped the construction of the temple’s boundary wall, citing legal reasons. But, the court has now also dismissed claims of any legal violation.
Moreover, a viral video on social media showcases a young boy trying to undo the foundation laid down for the temple. The video has been causing a massive uproar in the country.
