PAKISTAN DENIES DEMOLITION OF KRISHN TEMPLE

2. Pakistan Denies Krishna Mandir in Lahore Demolished
www.uniindia.com

ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN, June 16, 2006: Pakistan has denied reports that the Krishna Mandir in Lahore has been demolished to pave the way for the construction of a shopping mall. Minister for religious affairs Ejazul Haq rejected Indian opposition leader Lal Krishna Advani's statement on the demolition and challenged his remarks that minorities in Pakistan did not have religious freedom. "The Krishna Mandir is in perfect condition. I invite L.K. Advani to visit Lahore and pray at the temple," the Daily Times quoted Mr. Haq as telling reporters yesterday during a visit to Krishna Mandir on the Ravi Road. He said Rs 700,000 (US$11,600) was spent on the renovation of Krishna Mandir a few months ago, adding that irresponsible statements by the Indian leadership could affect the ongoing peace process between the two countries.