The petitioner claims that videos with music and dance compromise the sanctity of the mosque
The Islamabad High Court has issued notices to the respondents, including the in-charge of the Faisal Mosque, seeking their response to a petition seeking a ban on entering the mosque in inappropriate attire and recording videos of dancing and music on the premises.
Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir heard the petition on Monday, filed by a citizen Musharraf Zain. The petitioner appeared in court together with his lawyer.
Justice Tahir sought response from Deputy Commissioner Islamabad, Chairman CDA, Ministry of Religious Affairs, President International Islamic University, IG Islamabad and Estate Office on the petition.
The petition claimed that several videos circulating on social media show people recording obscene content inside the mosque premises.
It argued that videos with music and dancing compromise the sanctity and dignity of the mosque, while filming such content in semi-nude or inappropriate clothing constitutes a violation of the sanctity of the mosque and contravenes the right to freedom of religion guaranteed under Article 20 of the Constitution.
The petitioner further stated that formal written complaints had been made to the mosque in-charge, the Deputy Commissioner of Islamabad and the Chairman of the CDA, but no action had been taken.
Similar complaints were also sent to the Ministry of Religious Affairs, the President of the International Islamic University and the IG Islamabad Police.
The petition asked the court to ban people wearing indecent or inappropriate dress from entering the mosque and ban the shooting of videos involving music and dancing on the premises.
During the proceedings, Justice Tahir asked the petitioner’s counsel, “To whom should the court give directions in this case?” The lawyer replied that the mosque’s manager and other relevant officials had been sued in the case.
Subsequently, the court issued notices to all respondents, requested their written responses and adjourned the hearing.
