Jhelum( The COW News Digital) Renowned religious scholar Engineer Muhammad Ali Mirza has been arrested by the police under the Maintenance of Public Order (3-MPO) law, following growing pressure from religious groups and clerics.
According to Express News, the arrest was carried out by the City Police Station Jhelum, who apprehended Mirza from his academy on Tuesday. He was subsequently shifted to jail under security arrangements.
Police sources confirmed that the action came after several religious organizations and clerical groups filed petitions against Mirza, accusing him of controversial remarks and positions on religious matters. In recent weeks, delegations of prominent scholars had met with the district administration, formally demanding his arrest.
Mirza, known for his outspoken and reformist interpretations of Islamic teachings, has often been at odds with mainstream clerical establishments. His lectures, widely circulated on YouTube and social media, have earned him a significant following among youth but have also drawn sharp criticism from traditional religious circles.
Authorities stated that the arrest was aimed at preventing possible unrest, as tensions had been escalating due to rallies and protests staged by various groups calling for action against the scholar. Law enforcement sources emphasized that the move was taken under legal provisions to maintain public order rather than as a punitive measure against freedom of expression.
Supporters of Engineer Mirza have expressed concern over the arrest, calling it an attempt to silence independent voices in the religious discourse. Many took to social media platforms to condemn the action, demanding his immediate release and labeling the case as “politically and religiously motivated.”
On the other hand, clerical groups have welcomed the arrest, arguing that Mirza’s teachings were creating confusion and division within society. They insist that the government must take stricter measures to prevent the spread of “controversial” religious content.
The arrest has sparked a nationwide debate on the balance between freedom of speech, religious sensitivities, and state regulation of clerical discourse. Legal experts note that cases under the 3-MPO law are often challenged in courts, raising the possibility that Mirza’s detention could soon become the subject of judicial review.
As the situation develops, all eyes are on how the government navigates the delicate balance between appeasing religious groups and upholding constitutional rights.
