State Intervention in Religious Affairs:

The Legal Impact on Islamic Jurisprudence in Post-Soviet Central Asia

Sheikh Inam Ul Mansoor

 

Abstract: This article explores the intricate dynamics between state intervention and Islamic jurisprudence in post-Soviet Central Asia. Following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, Central Asian countries faced the challenge of redefining their national identities and governance structures, particularly concerning Islam, which had been suppressed under Soviet rule. The article examines how these newly independent states have regulated religious practices, focusing on the impact of state policies on Islamic law and religious institutions. Central Asian governments have implemented various measures to control religious activities, including restrictions on religious education, public expressions of faith, and the registration and oversight of religious organisations. These policies aim to balance national security and social stability concerns with the growing demands for religious freedom. However, they often lead to significant tensions between state authority and individual religious rights. The article delves into the effects of state-imposed legal frameworks on traditional Islamic jurisprudence, highlighting how state control can influence religious interpretations and practices. It also considers the role of state-appointed religious leaders and the implications for religious autonomy and jurisprudential development. The article provides a broader context for understanding the challenges and legal implications of state intervention in religious affairs. The findings underscore the need for a nuanced approach that respects both state interests and religious freedoms, ensuring that legal reforms and state policies contribute to a stable and inclusive society while honouring fundamental human rights.