Jammu and Kashmir Police Mosque Profiling Sparks Political and Religious Concerns

The Jammu and Kashmir Police have initiated a detailed data collection exercise profiling mosques, madrassas, and associated individuals, seeking information on finances, management, sect affiliations, and personal details. This move, linked by officials to investigations following a terror module bust, has drawn widespread criticism from political leaders and Muslim religious bodies, including the Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulema and National Conference, who describe it as intrusive, a violation of constitutional religious freedoms, and an attempt to intimidate and control religious practices. PDP leader Mehbooba Mufti called for similar profiling of other religious institutions, highlighting concerns over selective targeting and social division. Authorities have not officially confirmed the exercise, while critics urge its withdrawal to protect privacy and communal harmony.