By Qasim Ali
LAHORE:Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has announced a monthly stipend for imams of 65,000 mosques across the province, marking a historic first-of-its-kind initiative in Pakistan.
Presiding over the fifth consecutive meeting on law and order, here on Monday, the chief minister said that mosque imams are highly respected members of society and should not have to rely on community donations for their livelihood. “The Punjab government will take responsibility for providing financial support to mosque imams to ensure their dignity and welfare,” she added.The CM was briefed that projects for the construction and renovation of mosques have been included in the Annual Development Programme (ADP). She directed that these projects be completed at the earliest and that all necessary measures be taken to preserve the sanctity and proper maintenance of mosques across Punjab.She further directed that all connecting roads to Raiwind be repaired and resurfaced ahead of the annual Tablighi Congregation, besides ensuring a special bus service and foolproof security arrangements for pilgrims. Deputy Commissioners and Assistant Commissioners were also instructed to personally visit mosque imams in their respective areas to strengthen community engagement.The meeting also decided to establish a Cyber Crime Cell in Punjab to curb the misuse of digital platforms and ensure strict enforcement of the Loudspeaker Act.Authorities informed the chief minister that Friday and daily congregational prayers are being held peacefully across the province. The CM emphasized that mosques are houses of Allah and every citizen has a duty to safeguard their sanctity, urging people to report any attempt to use mosques for unlawful or subversive activities.Religious circles across Punjab lauded the initiative, describing it as a historic and commendable step by the Punjab government to promote religious harmony, respect for imams, and preservation of the sanctity of mosques.
