The Administration of Religion in Pakistan

Abstract

Since its independence, Pakistan's religious landscape has been shaped by complex historical, political, and sectarian dynamics, particularly involving the Deobandi and Barelvi schools of thought. Politically, the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI), representing the Deobandi school, and the Jamiat Ulema-e-Pakistan (JUP), representing the Barelvi school, have sought to influence Pakistan’s Islamic identity. This article examines the establishment of the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MRA) in 1974, which was a response to the country’s political and religious dynamics. It explores the reasons behind the MRA’s failure to achieve its intended objectives, focusing on its politicization, inconsistent priorities, and limited scope. This lack of clear focus reflects broader challenges in Pakistan’s religious governance, further exacerbated by the fragmented nature of Sunni Islam in the country. Additionally, the absence of a centralized, professionalized religious bureaucracy has resulted in insufficient training for religious leaders (imams), whose appointments are often driven by communal politics rather than merit or qualifications. The paper argues that the lack of a coherent and centralized religious administration undermines efforts to promote sectarian harmony, cohesion, and quality of religious education. It concludes that a revitalized, independent MRA, free from political influence, could create a more effective system for managing religious affairs and addressing these systemic issues