Author: Editorial
Publication: Dawn, Karachi
Date: November 2, 2001
The government has decided to clamp
down on the misuse of loudspeakers in mosques, and directed the provincial
governments to strictly implement this ban. The use of mosque loudspeakers
will now be restricted to calling the faithful to prayer and for the Friday
khutba (sermon).
The timing of the announcement is
clearly related to the turbulent internal situation following the US-led
attacks on Afghanistan. Recently, certain prayer leaders have been using
strong language against the government for aligning itself with the anti-terrorism
coalition, with mosques being used as rallying points for the anti-government
campaign. The official announcement has termed these attacks as "malicious
and seditious." While the announcement has been strongly condemned by some
religious groups, it will be welcomed by most moderate elements in society.
Over the years, certain mosques
have been using loudspeakers to openly incite people against various sects.
Frequently, two rival sects launch full-blast verbal attacks against one
another from neighbouring mosques, much to the alarm of local residents
caught in the crossfire as well as normal worshippers who go to mosques
to pray and not to get caught up in a blizzard of sectarian vituperation.
Part of the blame for the growing
sectarian violence in the country can be attributed to this tendency to
make inflammatory pronouncements from the pulpit. Apart from the political
and sectarian dimensions of this practice, there is also a social element
involved. Many people privately complain about the incessant speeches and
devotional songs that blare out from certain mosques at all hours of the
day and night. For those who are ailing, or need to study for their examinations,
this can be highly distracting.
The government decision to curb
such practices will be welcomed by many who have suffered in silence in
the face of this onslaught. Welcome though it is, the crux of the matter
is the enforcement of this restriction. With thousands of mosques spread
across the country, how will the authorities manage to implement the plan?
And does the government have the will to remain firm even if the action
leads to a defiant reaction? Despite these constraints, the government
must stick to its decision. Perhaps it could begin its campaign by getting
at some of the most blatant offenders. The government must show that it
means business and will crack down on anyone who misuses places of worship
to incite people to violence and hatred.
