The Ahmadiyya community has claimed that one of their worship places was demolished overnight in Daska Kalan, Sialkot District. Spokesperson Amir Mahmood described the January 16th action as a “heinous crime” and an “orchestrated attack,” alleging that the government administration completely razed the building under the cover of darkness.

Mahmood highlighted that the worship place, built before the partition of India by Sir Zafarullah Khan, was a significant historical site for the Ahmadiyya community. While acknowledging that notices regarding an operation against illegal encroachment had been issued by the Municipal Committee, he stated that the community had cooperated, identifying the disputed area in consultation with authorities two days before the demolition. He questioned why the demolition occurred at night, despite this cooperation.

“On the fateful day, during the night the authorities carried out this heinous crime & deprived Ahmadis from their fundamental right to practice their faith,” Mahmood said in a press statement. He further noted that this incident follows a pattern of persecution, citing the desecration of 22 Ahmadiyya places of worship last year.

Mahmood criticized the authorities’ actions as extrajudicial, contradicting decisions of superior courts and creating a negative image for Pakistan internationally. He argued that the persecution of the Ahmadiyya community sends a message that vulnerable groups are not safe.

The Ahmadiyya Community has called for an end to such actions, demanding accountability for those responsible and urging the state to provide protection to all vulnerable communities, including Ahmadis. Mahmood emphasized that the government should uphold the rule of law and protect the fundamental rights of all citizens.