ISLAMABAD: Religious segments from Shia and Barelvi sects have demanded that the government reopen the Bari Imam shrine, located in the federal capital.

“We do not want to make a fuss over the matter in the wake of the military operation, otherwise we would give a protest call from our mosques,” G-6 Imambargah Information Secretary Naeem Abbas said.

Speaking at a press conference here at Markazi Imambargah in G-6, members of the management committee demanded that local administration should open the shrine to the public immediately.

“The shrine has been sealed since May 29, when an explosive device was discovered there,” Abbas said, and continued, “So it is for security reason – but then why not shut down ministries, police stations and even the roads, since bombs have been found everywhere.”

He said that the Imambargah management has contacted various mosques and seminaries belonging to the Barelvi sect and held a meeting with the local administration.

He added that a protest call is the last option, and also expressed support for the ongoing operation in North Waziristan. He said that the elimination of dangerous forces is an urgent requirement.

Published in Dawn, June 29th, 2014