Islamabad — The Islamabad High Court has issued notices to several government departments and officials, seeking written responses in a case related to the protection of Faisal Mosque’s sanctity. The case stems from a citizen’s petition claiming that, in recent months, a number of inappropriate videos have been filmed within the mosque premises, featuring individuals in indecent clothing performing dances and other objectionable acts, thereby undermining the spiritual and religious sanctity of the site.
Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir heard the initial proceedings of the petition. During the hearing, the petitioner’s lawyer, Mashraf Zain, argued that videos circulating on social media, filmed inside Faisal Mosque, have deeply hurt public religious sentiments. According to the petition, several people have been seen dancing or recording content accompanied by music while dressed in revealing attire, and these videos are later shared widely across online platforms.
The petitioner stated that such conduct not only violates public decency but also contravenes Article 20 of Pakistan’s Constitution, which guarantees freedom of religion along with respect for all places of worship. He emphasized that Faisal Mosque holds symbolic importance for Pakistan and the Muslim world, and any act that diminishes its sanctity cannot be tolerated.
The petition further alleged that despite written complaints to various authorities, no concrete action has been taken so far. Letters were sent to the Deputy Commissioner of Islamabad, Chairman of the Capital Development Authority (CDA), Minister for Religious Affairs, President of the International Islamic University, Inspector General of Islamabad Police, and the mosque’s administration, but the situation reportedly remained unchanged.
During the hearing, the court inquired as to which authority could be directed to address the issue. The petitioner’s counsel responded that all relevant departments had been made parties to the case so that a collective code of conduct could be established. He added that if each institution fulfills its responsibility, such unethical activities could be effectively curbed.
The petition specifically requested the court to order the implementation of a code of conduct for all visitors entering the mosque. It called for a complete ban on entry for individuals wearing indecent or un-Islamic clothing and on any activity involving music, dancing, or video-making within the mosque compound.
Responding to the petition, the Islamabad High Court issued notices to all concerned authorities, including the Deputy Commissioner, CDA Chairman, Ministry of Religious Affairs, President of the International Islamic University, Islamabad’s Inspector General of Police, and the mosque’s in-charge. The court directed them to submit written replies before the next hearing, outlining what measures—if any—have been taken to preserve the mosque’s sanctity.
This issue gained public attention after several videos filmed at Faisal Mosque went viral on social media. In these clips, young men and women were seen recording TikTok-style content and dancing inside the mosque premises, prompting widespread criticism and public outrage. Citizens have demanded strict restrictions to prevent such disrespectful behavior.
Faisal Mosque, regarded as one of Pakistan’s most iconic landmarks and a major tourist attraction, holds great religious and cultural significance. However, many citizens believe that given its sacred nature, it should not be used as a backdrop for entertainment or social media trends.
Legal experts note that while Article 20 of Pakistan’s Constitution guarantees religious freedom, that freedom does not extend to actions that desecrate or disrespect places of worship. Any such act, they argue, goes against both constitutional principles and societal values.
Sources suggest that following the court’s notices, relevant authorities may soon draft a joint code of conduct outlining dress requirements, behavioral guidelines, and restrictions on photography or filming within the mosque premises. Tighter security measures and enhanced surveillance are also reportedly under consideration.
On social media, many users have welcomed the court’s intervention, describing it as a much-needed step to uphold the sanctity of the nation’s most prominent mosque. Some have also urged the authorities to introduce mandatory entry checks to ensure visitors adhere to appropriate dress codes and respectful behavior.
The court has scheduled the next hearing, during which all departments will be required to submit detailed reports. Based on their responses, the court will determine whether to formally enforce a code of conduct or issue further administrative directions.
Faisal Mosque—long recognized as a symbol of national unity, faith, and Islamic identity—has once again become the focus of public debate. Observers see the court’s move as a significant step toward protecting religious spaces from misuse and as a clear message against the growing trend of inappropriate social media content filmed at sacred sites.