As Eid-ul-Adha approaches, members of the Ahmadiyya community in Pakistan are reportedly facing pressure from police and district authorities to refrain from performing qurbani, the ritual animal sacrifice, even within their private residences.
According to reports from multiple districts in Punjab and some parts of Sindh, police have been detaining individuals and asking them to sign written undertakings stating they will not perform the ritual. In some cases, affidavits have been demanded without any legal grounds.
Government officials in Punjab have made conflicting statements on the matter. Meanwhile, some community members report being threatened or harassed by law enforcement.
There is no specific provision in Pakistani law that bars Ahmadis from performing qurbani in private. Legal experts say forcing individuals to sign such statements may be unconstitutional and beyond the powers of local authorities.
Human rights organisations have called on the federal and provincial governments to ensure that the fundamental rights of all citizens are protected, regardless of religious affiliation.
Despite being citizens of Pakistan, Ahmadis frequently report being targeted during religious festivals. The community has urged the government to take prompt steps to stop what they describe as an annual pattern of restrictions and pressure around Eid.