Myanmar Earthquake: Hundreds of Muslims Killed, 50 Mosques Destroyed
Naypyidaw, 30 March – (www.deccanlive.com): A powerful earthquake hit Myanmar and Thailand, causing massive destruction. The death toll has exceeded 1,644, with over 3,500 injured, according to media reports.
Severe Impact of the Earthquake
The earthquake was so strong that its tremors were felt 900 km away in Bangkok, Thailand. Many buildings collapsed, leaving thousands of people trapped under the rubble. International reports fear that the death toll may exceed 10,000 as rescue efforts continue.
Mosques Damaged, Worshippers Killed
The earthquake struck during Friday prayers, causing severe damage to mosques. Reports confirm that more than 50 mosques were destroyed, and at least 490 Muslims lost their lives. Among them, three worshippers were praying inside a mosque when the quake hit.
In Sule Kone village, a 39-year-old man described the heartbreaking moment he tried to save a man trapped under a collapsed mosque.
“I rescued four people… three were already dead. One died in my arms.”
At one mosque alone, 10 people died. In total, 23 people lost their lives at three mosques in the village.
Government Restrictions on Mosques
Myanmar’s military-led government has long restricted the repair and maintenance of mosques. The official earthquake damage report listed 670 Buddhist monasteries and 290 pagodas, but did not mention any mosques.
Reports indicate that at least 30 mosques were completely destroyed during the earthquake, leaving hundreds of Muslims dead.
Decades of Religious Oppression
Since 1962, the Myanmar government has forbidden the repair of mosques. Even simple maintenance like painting or fixing roofs must be done secretly to avoid government action.
The reopening of destroyed mosques is nearly impossible. Many mosques that were damaged during the 2001 anti-Muslim riots are still waiting for government approval for repairs. The recent destruction adds to the struggles of Myanmar’s Muslim community, who face both natural disasters and government oppression.
This tragic event highlights the urgent need for international attention and humanitarian aid to help the affected communities.
