Punjab CM Hands Over Sealed Mosques to Mufti Muneeb, Announces Rs25,000 Monthly for Imams
LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister has officially handed over the sealed mosques to Mufti Muneeb-ur-Rehman following the provincial government’s ban on the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), marking a key step toward restoring normalcy in religious affairs across the province.
During a high-level meeting held in Lahore, the Chief Minister announced a monthly honorarium of Rs25,000 for all registered Imams serving in these mosques. The move is being viewed as an effort to bring religious institutions under moderate clerical supervision and maintain peace in sensitive areas.
Decision Follows Crackdown on TLP
The provincial government had sealed several mosques linked to the TLP earlier this year after the party was banned for inciting violence and disrupting public order. Officials stated that the administration’s decision to hand over control to Mufti Muneeb reflects the government’s confidence in his leadership and reputation for promoting unity.
“Our goal is to ensure that religious centers remain places of peace and guidance, not conflict,” the Chief Minister said. “Mufti Muneeb’s stewardship will help restore harmony and discipline in these institutions.”
Mufti Muneeb Promises Transparency
Speaking at the ceremony, Mufti Muneeb-ur-Rehman expressed gratitude to the Punjab government and assured that mosque affairs would be managed transparently and in accordance with the law.
“We will make sure every mosque is used solely for worship and public welfare,” he stated. “This initiative will strengthen coordination between religious scholars and the government.”
Monthly Support for Imams
Under the new policy, each registered Imam will receive Rs25,000 per month from the provincial government. The stipend aims to support clerics financially and reduce the influence of unregulated groups operating independently of the state.
Public Reaction and Political Context
The decision has drawn mixed reactions from political and religious circles. Some hailed it as a pragmatic move to depoliticize religious institutions, while others questioned whether the step could create new administrative challenges.
Analysts note that the government’s engagement with moderate clerics like Mufti Muneeb may be part of a broader policy to regulate mosque management and prevent extremist ideologies from regaining ground.
Conclusion
The Punjab CM’s handover of sealed mosques to Mufti Muneeb marks a significant policy shift in the province’s approach to religious governance. With financial aid for Imams and new administrative oversight, the government aims to maintain peace and ensure responsible religious leadership.
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