Islamabad, November 8, 2025: A serious political controversy has erupted in Pakistan after the Sohail Afridi, Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province, publicly accused the Pakistan Army of showing extreme disrespect to religious sanctities by tying dogs inside mosques in the tribal areas of the province during military operations. (TOLOnews)
The Allegations
Chief Minister Afridi alleged that during operations in KP and the newly-merged tribal districts, security forces tied dogs inside mosques. He claimed:
“We saw that security forces had tied dogs inside our mosques. When we objected, we were told that it’s not an issue and that we are no different from them.”
He added that the operations have caused civilian casualties and accused the Pakistan Army of committing “war crimes”.
Context of the Operations
The incidents are said to have occurred during counter-terrorism operations by the Pakistan Army in KP’s tribal regions, aimed at militant groups such as the Tehrik‑i‑Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Afridi criticised the tactics used, suggesting they undermine civilian safety and religious sanctities.
Religious & Cultural Sensitivity
In Islamic culture, mosques are sacred places of worship. The presence of dogs inside a mosque is highly sensitive because dogs are generally considered ritually impure in many Islamic interpretations. Afridi’s allegation struck a strong chord given this cultural context.
Official Response & Fallout
The provincial governor of KP, Faisal Karim Kundi, swiftly condemned Afridi’s remarks, calling them “disparaging the security forces” and warning that such rhetoric could hurt morale and undermine public safety.
No publicly verifiable statement from the Pakistan Army was identified at the time of reporting directly addressing Afridi’s specific allegations.
Outlook
The controversy deepens the already-strained relationship between KP’s civilian leadership and the military establishment. It raises serious questions about accountability, conduct in counter-insurgency operations, respect for religious sites and civilian rights in Pakistan’s tribal belt.
