Italy Deports Pakistani Imam Over Controversial Remarks on Child Marriage
Italian authorities have deported a Pakistani imam, Ali Kashif, following widespread outrage over comments he made regarding child marriage.
According to a report by Il Giornale, the cleric came under scrutiny after an undercover investigation by the television programme Fuori dal Coro captured him citing religious justification for marrying young girls, stating they could be wed after reaching puberty.
The development prompted action from Paolo Sartori, the police commissioner of Brescia, who ordered the imam’s expulsion.
Authorities also found that Kashif did not hold a valid residence permit, and his application for one was subsequently denied. Following the decision, he was escorted by immigration officials to Milan Malpensa Airport, where he was placed on a flight bound for Islamabad, with a stopover in Bangkok.
Italian officials said the deportation was carried out immediately, citing both his immigration status and the public concern generated by his remarks.