China seems to be stepping up its crackdown on Islam. Many mosques have been torn down in recent years, and Muslim communities are increasingly feeling persecuted.
This is especially true in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, home to most of China’s Muslims. The demolitions are intended to suppress Islamic practices and erase Muslim culture.
One example is the Grand Mosque in Yengisar. It was destroyed in October without any warning. This mosque was a beloved landmark and meeting place for local Muslims, leaving the community heartbroken.
“This is a devastating blow to our community,” said Abdurahman, a local Muslim resident. “The mosque was not just a place of worship, but a symbol of our identity and heritage. Its destruction is a clear attempt to erase our culture and faith.”
Surveillance and Repression
In addition to mosque demolitions, China has implemented a sophisticated surveillance system to monitor Muslim communities. Facial recognition technology, DNA sampling, and artificial intelligence have created a pervasive atmosphere of fear and mistrust.
Mosques across China are being torn down, Islam is considered a mental illness.
— The British Patriot (@BritLad95) December 20, 2024
It’s time for the rest of the world to wake up, who’s with me? pic.twitter.com/pMpRT0T9ug
Muslims in Xinjiang are also subject to arbitrary detention, forced reeducation, and cultural assimilation programs. These measures aim to erase Islamic traditions and replace them with loyalty to the Chinese Communist Party.
“The Chinese government’s actions are a clear violation of human rights and international law,” said Sophie Richardson, China Director at Human Rights Watch. “The international community must take action to hold China accountable for its abuses and ensure that the rights of Muslim minorities are protected.“
International Condemnation
Human rights groups and the international community have condemned China for these developments, calling on Chinese authorities to halt the crackdown on Islam and respect the rights of Muslim minorities.
“We are deeply concerned about the situation in Xinjiang and the treatment of Muslim minorities in China,” said a spokesperson for the US State Department. “We urge the Chinese government to respect the rights of all its citizens, regardless of their faith or ethnicity.“
But the Chinese government has defended its actions, claiming they are necessary to combat terrorism and maintain social stability.
“The measures we have taken are necessary to ensure the safety and security of all Chinese citizens,” said a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry. “We will not be swayed by external criticism and will continue to take action to protect our national interests.“
However, critics argue that these measures are disproportionate and target entire Muslim communities rather than specific extremist groups.
If this situation continues, pressure must be brought to bear on China to respect the rights of its Muslim minority. Adherents of all faiths must add their voices to the demand that China preserves religious freedom and cultural diversity.
Afterall, today it is Muslims. Tomorrow, who’s next?
Comment, Like 👍, share this article, and Follow us on our social media handles.
WhatsApp Channel
Telegram Channel
