KARACHI: Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has categorically rejected reports suggesting that the government intends to close down religious seminaries or mosques, calling such claims “baseless propaganda.”
Speaking during a meeting with Chairman of Sunni Tehreek, Muhammad Sarwat Ejaz Qadri, in Karachi, the interior minister clarified that the government has no plan or policy to shut down any mosque or madrasa in the country. He emphasized that such institutions play an essential role in Pakistan’s religious, educational, and social fabric, and that their sanctity will be fully respected.
The meeting was also attended by Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon and Provincial Minister Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, who accompanied the federal interior minister. Discussions focused on strengthening religious harmony, interfaith unity, and collaboration between the government and religious leadership to maintain peace and social stability.
Minister Naqvi praised the contributions of religious scholars and institutions, acknowledging their role in promoting education, moral values, and community welfare. He urged scholars to continue spreading messages of peace, tolerance, and national unity, noting that Pakistan’s diversity of religious schools and traditions is a source of strength rather than division.
During the meeting, both sides agreed that false narratives and misinformation campaigns—particularly on social media—aim to create unrest and distrust between the government and religious communities. The interior minister reaffirmed that the state values its partnership with religious leaders and will continue engaging them in decision-making processes related to community welfare and social policy.
Mohsin Naqvi stressed that any administrative measures related to seminaries will be taken only in consultation with relevant religious boards and scholars, ensuring transparency and mutual understanding. “No mosque or madrasa will be targeted or closed under any circumstances,” he assured, adding that the government’s focus remains on improving coordination and ensuring that religious institutions continue to function peacefully and responsibly.
