In Khandwa district, Madhya Pradesh, the president of a village mosque committee (Mohammed Hanif) has been booked by police under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), for appointing an Imam without first informing the authorities. The Imam, Akhtar Raza, originally from Bihar, was given temporary duties. Raza had been residing in a space allotted by the mosque committee on a probationary basis. Authorities allege Hanif failed to submit required documents or seek prior approval from the police, as mandated by local rules regarding outsiders staying or being appointed in religious institutions. (The Siasat Daily)
Hanif defended the move, stating that since Raza’s appointment was not permanent yet, they had delayed verifying his documents. Once summoned, however, Hanif says all necessary paperwork has now been submitted. Raza also explained that his family had not yet moved permanently due to lack of accommodation. (The Siasat Daily)
Implications & Debate
- Law vs Tradition: The case reflects tensions between informal community practices (appointing Imams from outside, temporary arrangements) and legal requirements under BNS relating to reporting or notifying authorities.
- “Outsider” rules: Local regulations demand notification when someone from outside the area is appointed or stays; failure to do so can lead to criminal charges.
- Religious Freedom & Bureaucracy: Advocates might argue that such regulations impose bureaucratic hurdles on religious exercise, while authorities see them as necessary for monitoring and public order.
