Punjab Govt Announces Monthly Allowances for 65,000 Mosque Imams

Punjab Government Announces Monthly Allowances for Imams Across 65,000 Mosques

In a landmark initiative, the Punjab government has approved monthly stipends for prayer leaders (imams) serving in around 65,000 mosques across the province, marking the first time such a program has been introduced.

The decision was made during a high-level law and order meeting chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, who emphasized the need to recognize and support imams as key pillars of the community.

Maryam Nawaz stated that the imam of a mosque holds a position of great respect and dignity, and it is unbecoming for communities to rely on donations to compensate them. She announced that the provincial government will now provide financial assistance to imams to help meet their essential living expenses.

The chief minister also directed that mosque construction and renovation projects be included in the Annual Development Programme (ADP), stressing that these projects should be completed without delays.

Following her orders, repair and maintenance work on the roads leading to Raiwind, the site of the annual religious congregation, has already been completed. The government has also arranged special bus services and ensured strict security measures for attendees.

Maryam Nawaz further instructed deputy and assistant commissioners to hold direct meetings with local imams to listen to their concerns and resolve issues on priority.

In addition to these measures, the meeting approved the establishment of a Cybercrime Cell in Punjab to combat digital offenses and ordered strong enforcement against the unlawful use of loudspeakers.

This initiative, hailed as a step toward social respect and welfare, reflects the Punjab government’s broader vision to uplift religious institutions and strengthen community harmony.