Greek Government Orders Deportation of Bangladeshi Imam, Closes 60 Illegal Mosques

Hindu Voice Team: The government of Greece has announced a major enforcement action targeting unlicensed mosques and religious leaders in the country, resulting in the closure of dozens of prayer sites and the deportation of a Bangladeshi imam.

According to authorities, Greek immigration and asylum officials used Section 28 of Law 5224/2025 to identify and shut down 60 mosques operating without official permits, many of which were functioning in residential buildings and other makeshift locations in Athens and surrounding urban areas.

Among those affected is a Bangladeshi imam whose residence permit was revoked after local complaints and legal proceedings found that the mosque he led did not have authorization to conduct religious services. Greek authorities have begun deportation procedures against him, ordering him to leave the country.

Officials insist the closures are part of a broader effort to enforce immigration and urban planning laws. The only officially sanctioned mosque for Muslim worship in central Athens is located far from many immigrant neighborhoods, making access difficult for the affected communities.

Members of the Bangladeshi diaspora have expressed concern and uncertainty over how the closures will affect religious observances, especially with the start of Ramadan approaching. Representatives from the Bangladesh Community in Greece say they are seeking urgent dialogue with government officials to find a long-term solution that allows lawful worship without disrupting community life.

Bangladeshi diplomats in Athens have also stated they will engage Greek authorities to protect the rights and interests of their citizens abroad.

The move has sparked debate about immigration policy and religious freedoms in Greece, where recent years have seen increased scrutiny of irregular places of worship amid wider discussions on integration and security.