ibn sultan
Srinagar, Jan 12: The Jammu and Kashmir Police have reportedly initiated a large-scale data collection exercise seeking extensive information on mosques and religious clerics across the Kashmir Valley, according to a report published by The Indian Express.
As per the report, police have circulated a four-page form in several districts, seeking detailed information about mosques, including their sect affiliation, seating capacity, construction cost, funding sources, monthly budget, bank accounts, and land ownership details. The form also seeks structural details such as the number of floors and the nature of construction.
In addition to mosque-related data, the exercise reportedly demands comprehensive personal information of individuals associated with these religious institutions, including imams, muezzins, khateebs, mosque management committee members, and members of Bait-ul-Maal. The information sought includes date of birth, educational qualifications, contact details, family particulars, passport and travel history, Aadhaar, voter ID, PAN, bank account details, and ownership of movable and immovable properties.
The report further states that individuals have been asked to disclose details of mobile phones, including IMEI numbers, social media accounts, mobile applications used, ATM and credit card information, and monthly income and expenditure. Details of relatives living abroad and any past involvement in militancy or criminal cases have also reportedly been sought.
According to the report, this is the first time such an extensive data-gathering exercise involving mosques and religious functionaries has been carried out on this scale in the Valley. The move has reportedly triggered unease among sections of the population, with some residents describing it as undue interference in religious affairs.
While the Jammu and Kashmir Police have not issued any official statement acknowledging the exercise, sources cited in the report claim that the survey has been underway for some time and field officers have been directed to collect and submit the completed forms.
