Ban sought on video filming, indecent clothing at Faisal Mosque

Petitioner argues videos featuring music, dance compromise sanctity of the mosque

The Islamabad High Court has issued notices to the respondents, including the in-charge of Faisal Mosque, seeking their response to a petition calling for a ban on entering the mosque in inappropriate attire and filming of videos with dancing and music within the premises.

Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir heard the petition on Monday, filed by a citizen Musharraf Zain. The petitioner, accompanied by his counsel, appeared in the court.

Justice Tahir sought response from the deputy commissioner Islamabad, chairman CDA, ministry of religious affairs, president International Islamic University, IG Islamabad, and the Estate Office on the petition.

The petition contended that numerous videos circulating on social media depict individuals recording indecent content within the premises of the mosque.

It argued that videos featuring music and dance compromise the sanctity and dignity of the mosque, while the filming of such content in semi-nude or inappropriate clothing constitutes a violation of the mosque’s sanctity and contravenes the right to religious freedom guaranteed under Article 20 of the Constitution.

The petitioner further stated that formal written complaints had been submitted 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 requested the court to prohibit entry of individuals wearing indecent or inappropriate dress into the mosque, and ban the recording of videos involving music and dance within the premises.

During the proceedings, Justice Tahir inquired of the petitioner’s counsel, “To whom should the court issue directions in this matter?” The counsel replied that the mosque’s in-charge and other relevant officials had been made respondents in the case.

Subsequently, the court issued notices to all respondents, sought their written replies, and adjourned the hearing.