In a landmark decision, Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif directed the authorities concerned to introduce a monthly stipend for 'imams' of 65,000 mosque across the province, being the first initiative of its kind in Pakistan’s history
Lahore, (Pakistan Point News - 28th Oct, 2025) In a landmark decision, Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif directed the authorities concerned to introduce a monthly stipend for 'imams' of 65,000 mosque across the province, being the first initiative of its kind in Pakistan’s history. She said while presiding over the fifth consecutive meeting on law and order that mosque imams are highly respected members of a society and it is inappropriate for local communities to collect donations to pay them.
She noted,"Punjab government will take responsibility for providing financial support to mosque imams to ensure their dignity and welfare."
Chief Minister Punjab was briefed by the relevant authorities that projects for the construction and renovation of mosques have been included in the Annual Development Programme (ADP). She directed that these projects should be completed at the earliest and all necessary measures must be taken to maintain the sanctity and proper upkeep of mosques across Punjab.
On Chief Minister Punjab's direction, all connecting roads leading to Raiwind have been repaired and resurfaced ahead of the annual 'Tablighi' Congregation. Special bus service will be operated to facilitate pilgrims while foolproof security arrangements have been put in place for the event. She also directed Deputy Commissioners and Assistant Commissioners to personally visit mosque imams in their respective areas to strengthen community engagement in the province.
Furthermore, it was decided in the meeting that a Cyber Crime Cell will be established in Punjab to curb the misuse of digital platforms. She also directed to ensure strict enforcement against illegal use of loudspeakers.
The authorities concerned briefed Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif that Friday and daily congregational prayers are being held peacefully across Punjab, and noted, “Mosques are houses of Allah and it is a duty of every Muslim to maintain their sanctity." She also stressed that every responsible citizen must report any attempt to use mosques for subversive activities. Religious circles across Punjab lauded this initiative of Punjab government, terming it historic and commendable step towards promoting religious harmony, respect for imams and preservation of sanctity of mosques across Punjab.
