Worst Systematic Crackdown On Ahmadiyya Muslims In Punjab, Pakistan
In 10 days 3 Ahmadiyya Mosques Attacked by Official Under TLP Pressure
Punjab, Pakistan – In a disturbing escalation of state-backed persecution, Pakistani authorities, under pressure from the extremist group Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), have directly participated in the destruction of Ahmadiyya Muslim mosques across Punjab. In just 10 days in February 2025, police not only failed to protect the Ahmadiyya Muslim community but actively carried out demolitions of their mosques.
On February 11, in Lubbay, district Sialkot, police forced the demolition of the niche of an Ahmadiyya Muslim Mosque. Community members refused to carry out the act themselves, after which police detained the local Ahmadiyya Muslim president and proceeded with the destruction while preventing others from approaching the site.
On February 20, at 12:00 PM, caught on video[1], a violent mob led by Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) stormed Throoh Mandi, Pasrur tehsil, Sialkot district. The mob attacked the local Ahmadiyya Muslim Mosque, destroying its minarets and arch while chanting anti-Ahmadi slogans. Despite the presence of law enforcement, no action was taken to prevent the attack. In a chilling escalation, TLP members threatened to return on February 25 to demolish the Ahmadiyya Muslim graveyard, further endangering the already persecuted community.
Tensions Faced by the Ahmadis at Chak No. 20NP, district Rahim Yar Khan
The Authorities were given a deadline of 23rd February 2025 from TLP (Extremist Clerics) to demolish the Minarets of the Ahmadiyya Mosque Chak No. 20NP, district Rahim Yar Khan and in case if that is not met, they threated to demolish the Minarets themself by force. The authorities, the Police and the DPO were in frequent contact with the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. The authorities gave assurance to Ahmadiyya Community that we will not let anything happen.
On February 22, in Chak No. 20NP, district Rahim Yar Khan, authorities once again surrendered to TLP’s pressure. Despite prior assurances of protection, police arrived at 11 PM and personally carried out the demolition of the minarets and niche, erasing the Kalima from the mosque. This incident was caught on video[2].
These incidents make it clear that the Pakistani state is no longer merely turning a blind eye to religious persecution—it is enabling and executing it. With extremist groups dictating policy, the fundamental rights of religious minorities continue to be systematically dismantled, raising urgent concerns about the country’s commitment to justice and human rights.
The International Human Rights Committee (IHRC) demands:
- Immediate Investigation: Pakistani authorities must launch a transparent inquiry into these incidents, holding perpetrators—including complicit officials—accountable.
- Protection for Ahmadis: The government must ensure the safety of the Ahmadiyya community and their places of worship, ending the impunity of hate-driven mobs.
- Global Solidarity: The international community, including the United Nations, European Union and Human Rights Organizations, must pressure Pakistan to uphold its commitments to religious freedom under international law.
TIME TO ACT IS NOW
The Ahmadiyya Muslim community, long persecuted for their beliefs, stands at a breaking point. The IHRC urges media, policymakers, and advocates worldwide to amplify their voices and demand justice. History will judge us by our response to this unfolding tragedy.
We call upon the Pakistani authorities to honor their international human rights commitments to protect religious freedom and promote religious tolerance towards the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community
[1] Link to a video on social media: https://x.com/i/status/1894103805211340890
[2] Link to a video on social media: https://x.com/i/status/1894135488761544814
