Controversial Religious Scholar Engineer Muhammad Ali Mirza Arrested in Pakistan
Jhelum, Pakistan – 26 August – (www.deccanlive.com): Controversial and self-styled religious scholar Engineer Muhammad Ali Mirza has been arrested by City Police Jhelum, Pakistan under the 3 MPO (Maintenance of Public Order) law.
According to police, Mirza was taken into custody from his academy in Jhelum and later shifted to the district jail.
Arrest After Religious Complaints
Sources said that several religious groups had filed complaints against him, while delegations of clerics also met with the district administration today demanding his arrest. The complaint was based on remarks he made in a recent interview, which, according to the applicants, allegedly “hurt the religious sentiments of Muslims.”
The police spokesperson confirmed that the arrest was made on the order of the administration, following these petitions.
30-Day Detention in Jhelum Jail
Deputy Superintendent of Police Chaudhry Shahbaz Hanjra told Media that he personally arrested Mirza late at night. He added that Mirza has been placed in 30-day detention at Jhelum District Jail under MPO rules.
“Only his lawyers and family members are allowed to meet him, as this is a sensitive religious matter. The security of human life is our top priority,” said Hanjra.
What is 3 MPO Law?
Under Pakistan’s 3 MPO law, authorities can detain individuals considered a threat to public safety or law and order. The detention can last for a fixed period, extendable but not beyond six consecutive months. Any detention longer than three months requires judicial oversight.
Human rights activists have long criticized this law, calling it controversial and accusing the government of using it to suppress fundamental rights.
