The Jammu and Kashmir Police have reportedly launched a large-scale data collection exercise covering mosques across the Kashmir Valley, along with detailed personal information of people associated with these religious institutions, according to a report by The Indian Express.
The report says the exercise includes collecting information about mosques, their imams, muezzins, management committee members and charity wings. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
What Information Is Being Collected
As per the report, police have circulated a four-page form in several areas of the Valley.
- One page focuses on mosque-related details
- Three pages seek personal information of individuals linked to mosque management
The mosque-related section reportedly asks for:
- Sect affiliation (Barelvi, Hanafi, Deobandi, Ahle-Hadith)
- Seating capacity and number of floors
- Approximate construction cost
- Source of funding
- Monthly budget and bank account details
- Nature of land on which the mosque is built
- Management structure and charity activities
Extensive Personal Details Sought
The report states that imams, muezzins, khateebs, Bait-ul-Maal members and mosque committee members have been asked to provide detailed personal and family information, including:
- Date of birth and educational qualifications
- Mobile phone numbers and phone models
- IMEI numbers
- Email addresses and social media accounts
In addition, the form reportedly seeks:
- Aadhaar, voter ID and driving licence numbers
- Passport details and travel history
- Information on relatives living abroad
- PAN, bank account details, ATM and credit card information
- Ration card details
Income, Property and Background Checks
According to the report, individuals are also asked to disclose:
- Monthly income and expenditure
- Property ownership with estimated values
- Use of mobile applications
- Social media activity
- Any past involvement in militancy or criminal cases
Complete family details, including parents, siblings and children, have also been sought.
First Such Exercise of This Scale
The report notes that this is the first time such a wide-ranging survey of mosques and religious functionaries is being carried out in Kashmir.
While the police have not officially acknowledged the exercise, sources quoted by the newspaper said it has been underway for some time and officers have been directed to collect and submit the completed forms.
Concerns and Reactions
The reported exercise has caused unease among sections of the local population, with some people describing it as interference in religious affairs.
Others have raised concerns about:
- Privacy
- The scale of personal data being collected
- The absence of a public explanation from authorities
So far, there has been no formal statement from the Jammu and Kashmir Police explaining the purpose or legal basis of the data collection.
What Happens Next
As the issue gains attention, observers say official clarification may be needed to address public concerns and explain how the collected data will be used and protected.
The situation continues to be closely watched across the Valley, given the sensitive nature of religious institutions and personal data involved.
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