Islamabad – August 10, 2025:
In a carefully planned and mutually agreed move, the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Administration, with full coordination of the Masjid-e-Madni management, relocated the Masjid-e-Madni and adjoining madrassa from Murree Road to a newly constructed purpose-built facility in Margalla Town.
The move is part of the federal government’s broader vision to preserve Islamabad’s greenbelts. The matter had initially been raised in a high-level meeting chaired by the Minister of Interior in January 2025, during which it was decided that the mosque and madrassa would be shifted to a purpose-built facility in Margalla Town.
The Capital Development Authority (CDA), in consultation with the mosque’s management, constructed a modern mosque and madrassa on a 50×100 sq ft plot in Margalla Town. The new facility includes large prayer halls, modern ablution areas, and tuff-paver walkways, at a government-funded cost of over Rs 40 million.
Following the completion of the complex, all 187 students and staff were peacefully shifted to the new location with the full cooperation of the Masjid-e-Madni management. This successful transition was made possible through dialogue, coordination, and mutual understanding.
Officials further clarified that the structure on Murree Road functioned primarily as a madrassa, and while it was used for prayers, it was not officially designated as a mosque. Its location on a greenbelt made it subject to removal under Islamabad’s ongoing anti-encroachment drive. Verbal instructions to that effect were reiterated by the Minister during a follow-up meeting in June 2025, with formal notices also issued to concerned parties.
“This relocation was not a forced eviction,” an ICT Administration spokesperson said. “A purpose-built, more spacious, and well-equipped alternative was provided with full coordination and consent. Attempts to politicize the issue are unfortunate and potentially harmful.”
The government has reiterated that this relocation was not only lawful but also carried out respectfully, ensuring no disruption to religious or educational activities. Authorities have also urged the public to disregard misinformation being spread by certain elements attempting to politicize the matter for personal or sectarian gain.
