Historic Hindu Temple Demolished for Commercial Complex Near Pakistan-Afghanistan Border

The ‘Khyber Temple’, a historical Hindu temple located near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, has been demolished to pave the way for the construction of a commercial complex. According to a report by the news agency PTI, construction work for the commercial complex has commenced at the site situated in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

Closure and Deterioration

The temple had remained closed since 1947 when its original occupants migrated to India. Over the years, the temple had been gradually deteriorating, with its structure vanishing brick by brick.

Contradictory Claims

While some locals and tribal inhabitants of the area confirmed the existence of the temple, Pakistani officials expressed ignorance regarding its presence. Tribal journalist Ibrahim Shinwari affirmed the historical significance of the temple, emphasizing its existence in the main Landi Kotal Bazaar. He recounted that the temple suffered partial damage in 1992 following the demolition of the Babri Masjid in India.

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Official Denials

However, several Pakistani officials, including Assistant Commissioner Muhammad Irshad, denied any knowledge of the temple’s existence. Irshad maintained that the land where the temple stood belonged to the state.

Lack of Documentation

Authorities admitted the absence of authentic and organized revenue records in the Khyber district. Despite this, Tehsil Municipal Officer Shahbaz Khan clarified that construction permits were granted for commercial structures based on approved maps and deposited fees.

Calls for Preservation

Concerns were raised about the government’s failure to protect religious minority sites. Haroon Sarabdiyal of the Pakistan Hindu Mandir Management Committee emphasized the responsibility of relevant government departments to safeguard historical religious buildings. He suggested repurposing unused or dilapidated sites for social welfare activities instead of demolition.

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The demolition of the Khyber Temple underscores broader concerns about the preservation of religious minority sites in Pakistan. While official denials and lack of documentation persist, voices advocating for preservation and responsible governance continue to highlight the importance of protecting cultural heritage for future generations.