Over 100-Year-Old Hindu Temple Razed in Pakistan's Punjab, Minority Group Seeks Probe

An over 100-year-old Hindu temple in Pakistan’s Punjab province has been demolished, triggering concerns among members of the Hindu community and calls for an investigation into the circumstances surrounding its destruction. The temple was located in Siraj village in Narowal district, about 130 kilometres from Lahore, and was believed to be between 100 and 125 years old. The historic structure stood on roughly 1,000 square metres of land and was regarded as an important religious site for the local Hindu community.

The temple was reportedly demolished on August 21. Minority representatives and local residents have alleged that the structure was deliberately brought down to make its land available for a nearby madrassa. The allegation has led to demands for authorities to investigate the incident and examine the ownership and use of the property. The Pakistan Masiha Millat Party has also called for action over the alleged demolition and demanded that the historic temple be rebuilt. Party chairman Aslam Parvez Sahotra reportedly submitted a written application to Punjab authorities after meeting the provinces Additional Home Secretary on August 28.

Sahotra alleged that individuals associated with Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan were involved in the demolition. He further claimed that material from the temple, including metal fittings from its shikhar and bricks, was removed after the structure was brought down. The allegations have not been independently established. The dispute also involves the land surrounding the temple. According to Sahotra, adjoining property had previously been leased by the Evacuee Trust Property Board to a madrassa. He claimed that the lease was later cancelled after rent allegedly remained unpaid and the property was not used according to the terms of the agreement. He also alleged that portions of the property were subsequently occupied without authorisation.

Pakistani authorities, however, have rejected the claim that the temple was intentionally demolished. Officials have said the old structure collapsed because of torrential monsoon rains. The governments explanation directly contradicts allegations from minority representatives, making an independent investigation important in determining what actually happened. The reported destruction of the temple has also renewed wider concerns about the preservation of historic Hindu religious sites in Pakistan. Many such structures date back to the period before the 1947 Partition and represent an important part of the regions religious and architectural history.

The issue is not only about the loss of an old building but also about the protection of places connected to their religious and cultural heritage. Community representatives have therefore urged the authorities to secure the site, investigate the circumstances of the demolition and consider rebuilding the temple. The controversy is likely to remain unresolved until authorities establish whether the structure collapsed because of severe weather or was deliberately demolished. A transparent inquiry into the temple, its surrounding land and the claims made by both sides could provide clarity and determine what happens to the site next.

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