Police Collect Mosque Details in Kashmir: Security or Overreach?
Kashmir police collect mosque details, raising concerns about surveillance and religious freedom.
Photo by Nikola Tomašić
In Kashmir, police are gathering detailed information about mosques, including their management and imams. This action has raised concerns about potential surveillance and infringement on religious freedom. Authorities claim the move is aimed at preventing the misuse of religious places for anti-national activities and maintaining law and order.
Critics argue that such measures create an atmosphere of fear and distrust, potentially alienating the local population. The collection of data includes details about the mosque's structure, sources of funding, and the affiliations of the individuals running the religious institutions. This initiative follows a period of heightened security measures in the region.
Key Facts
Police collecting data: Mosque structure, funding, management
Reason cited: Preventing misuse for anti-national activities
UPSC Exam Angles
GS Paper II: Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice & International relations
Connects to fundamental rights, secularism, and law and order
Potential question types: analytical, critical, statement-based
Visual Insights
Mosque Details Collection in Kashmir
Map showing the region in Kashmir where police are collecting details about mosques. This highlights the geographical focus of the initiative.
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More Information
Background
The relationship between the state and religious institutions in Kashmir has a long and complex history, predating India's independence. Historically, Sufi traditions played a significant role in shaping the cultural and religious landscape of the region, often acting as a bridge between different communities. The rise of political Islam in the late 20th century, coupled with separatist movements, altered this dynamic.
The state's involvement in managing religious affairs has varied over time, ranging from direct administration to more indirect forms of oversight. The Waqf Board, for instance, has historically played a role in managing religious properties and institutions. The current measures can be seen as part of a broader pattern of state intervention in religious affairs, aimed at maintaining security and preventing the spread of extremist ideologies, a pattern that has intensified since the 1990s.
Latest Developments
In recent years, there has been an increased focus on de-radicalization efforts in Kashmir, with the government emphasizing the promotion of moderate Islamic teachings. This has involved initiatives such as funding for Sufi cultural programs and the establishment of community outreach programs aimed at countering extremist narratives. The collection of mosque details can be viewed as an extension of these efforts, aimed at identifying and addressing potential sources of radicalization.
The legal framework governing religious institutions is also under review, with discussions on strengthening regulations to ensure transparency and accountability. Future trends may involve greater collaboration between the government, religious leaders, and civil society organizations in promoting peace and harmony. There are also concerns about the potential for misuse of data collected, and the need for robust safeguards to protect privacy and religious freedom.
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding the Waqf Board in India: 1. It is a statutory body established under the Waqf Act of 1995. 2. The board is responsible for the management and administration of Waqf properties. 3. The central government has the sole authority to appoint the chairperson of the Waqf Board. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: A
Statements 1 and 2 are correct. The chairperson of the Waqf Board is appointed by the state government, not solely by the central government.
2. In the context of religious freedom in India, Article 25 of the Constitution guarantees which of the following? 1. Freedom of conscience and free profession, practice and propagation of religion. 2. The right of the State to regulate or restrict any economic, financial, political or other secular activity associated with religious practice. 3. The right of religious denominations to manage their own affairs in matters of religion. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: A
Statement 1 and 2 are correct. Statement 3 refers to Article 26, not Article 25.
3. Which of the following statements accurately reflects the historical context of Sufism in Kashmir? A) Sufism was introduced to Kashmir by the Mughals in the 16th century. B) Sufi saints played a crucial role in the spread of Islam in Kashmir, emphasizing syncretism and tolerance. C) Sufi traditions in Kashmir were primarily focused on strict adherence to orthodox Islamic practices. D) Sufism had minimal impact on the cultural and religious landscape of Kashmir.
- A.A
- B.B
- C.C
- D.D
Show Answer
Answer: B
Sufi saints played a significant role in the spread of Islam in Kashmir, known for their emphasis on syncretism and tolerance.