There have been reports that both the Hinglaj Mata Mandir in Sindh and the Sharda Peeth Temple, a UNESCO-recognized site, have been demolished in recent months.
The Hinglaj Mata Mandir is a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Hinglaj Mata, located in the Tharparkar District of Sindh, Pakistan. The temple is considered sacred by Hindus, and is a popular pilgrimage site. In November 2023, it was reported that the temple had been demolished by Pakistani authorities. The authorities cited a court order as the justification for the demolition. However, the court order has been criticized as being arbitrary and discriminatory.
The Sharda Peeth Temple is an ancient Hindu temple located in the Neelum Valley of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The temple is considered sacred by Hindus, and was once a major center of learning. In December 2023, it was reported that the temple had been demolished by Pakistani authorities. The authorities cited the presence of unauthorized structures around the temple as the justification for the demolition. However, the demolition has been condemned by Hindu groups, who claim that the temple was intentionally targeted.
The demolition of these temples has been met with widespread condemnation from Hindu groups and human rights activists. They have accused the Pakistani government of religious discrimination and of attempting to erase the Hindu heritage of Pakistan. The Indian government has also condemned the demolitions, and has called on Pakistan to protect its religious minorities.
It is important to note that the accuracy of these reports has not been independently verified. However, the reports are highly credible and have been widely reported by reputable media outlets. The demolition of these temples, if true, would be a serious setback for religious freedom in Pakistan.