The Council of Islamic Ideology (CII) has started a research on the issue of constructing a Hindu temple in Islamabad, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Friday.

It is the Research Department which launched the process and would submit its findings at the next meeting of CII.

In this connection, the data concerning the Hindu community has been sought from the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA). Moreover, the researchers also asked the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to provide further related details.

The move comes after the Ministry of Religious Affairs earlier requested the CII to assist in the controversial matter by providing necessary guidance.

Minister for Religious Affairs Pir Noor-ul-Haq Qadri, through a letter in July, sought the CII’s opinion on whether the government was allowed to fund the construction of a temple in the city.

He also asked whether the government can build a non-Muslim place of worship using government funds.

This decision about seeking opinion from the CII on the issue was taken after Prime Minister Imran Khan Qadri to consult the CII on the temple after a public cry around the country over the issue.

The construction of this planned temple was earlier stopped after religious circles reacted strongly to the move. Later, the federal government faced criticism as a serious violation of CDA bylaws was also found.

Sources said the building plan of the temple had not been approved by the CDA and no NOC was issued for construction.

Gohar Mehsud reported this news for 24NewsHD TV.