As China continues to grow wary of its Muslim population amid a shifting dynamic in the Middle East, Foreign Policy’s Alexandra Evans details the crackdown on Ramadan currently underway in Xinjiang:
Citing the need to “maint[ain] social stability during the Ramadan period” the Zonglang township in the Kashgar district issued a statement reminding citizens that “It is forbidden for Communist Party cadres, civil officials (including those who have retired) and students to participate in Ramadan religious activities.” Others local governments have urged party leaders to enforce the ban by bringing “gifts” of food to local leaders.
Though mosques remain open for prayers, new restrictions have limited services. Foreigners have been banned from entering mosques and Muslims wishing to attend services must first display a national identity card as confirmation of their local residence. Public congregation after the services is prohibited and students are encouraged to avoid public prayer.
Dilxat Raxit, spokesman for the World Uyghur Congress attributed the crackdown to recent ethnic violence in the cities of Kashgar and Hotan but warned the restrictions will incite “the Uighur people to resist [Chinese rule] even further.”
