IHC reserves judgment on petition against construction of temple
ISLAMABAD, July 06 (Online): Justice Amir Farooq of Islamabad High Court (IHC) has reserved judgment on the petitions filed against the construction of temple in Islamabad
The court inquired from Capital Development Authority (CDA) during the hearing of the case plot is located where and it will be used for what purpose.
Director Urban Planning CDA told the court proceedings was started with reference to allotment of plot in H-9/2 in 2016. The plot was allotted to Hindu community for the purpose of temple, community centre and Shamshan Ghat.
Justice Amir Farooq inquired has temple map come for approval or not.
CDA personal told the court it is not known now. . Plot was allotted after the proposals from ministry of religious affairs, special branch and Islamabad administration. The land for grave yards for Qadiani, Budh community , Christian and Behai community has been allotted along with this plot. 3.89 Kanal land was allotted in 2017 and it was handed over to Hindu Punchait in 2018.
Deputy Attorney General Raja Khalid Mehmood told the court government has not provided any funds for construction of temple. The applicants are talking of Rs 100 million. But government has not extended any funding.
Government has summoned recommendations from Council of Islamic Ideology for funding. Positive message is not going to the world, he said. The constitution allows this thing to Non Muslims.
CDA personal told the court this plot has been allotted in the name of Hindu Punchait in Islamabad. The plots were allotted to other communities in the beginning of 90s for construction of grave yards. Orchard scheme was formed. The land was provided to other communities after allotment of land for Muslim graveyards.
Justice Amir Farooq remarked government has referred the matter to Council for Islamic Ideology.
The counsel for petitioner told the court the approval for temple and funding are two different matters. Government can neither provide funds nor can it give approval for construction of temple
The court after hearing the parties concerned reserved judgment on the case.
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