In correspondence with the Research Directorate, the Joint Director of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan provided the following information, which she emphasized reflects her personal opinion. An Imambargah, or place of worship for Shi'a followers, is usually headed by an Imam, or prayer leader (HRCP 19 Aug. 2004). The duties and functions of the Imam include

...leading prayers several times in the day, delivering the sermon at Friday prayers and possibly presiding at marriages, conducting funeral prayers and other similar services.

He may, or may not, be involved with other activities of Shias, depending [o]n his leanings, affiliations etc. e.g. some Imams may be members of the (banned) Tehrik e Jafriya Pakistan, a political group representing Shias, others may not be.

During the Muslim holy month of Muharram, most devoutly observed by Shias, the leader of an Imambargah may conduct other gatherings to mark the occasion, participate in traditional processions etc. (ibid.).

When asked about the participation of Imams in community outreach activities, the Joint Director noted that

[t]his depends entirely on the individual Imam, his age, inclinations etc. He may be an active member of the community, or may restrict himself to strictly religious activities. He may visit the homes of community members, or they may visit his, depending on his particular style as a clerical leader. His job description essentially requires him to lead prayers and preside over religious services. He may live in residences at the Imambargah, or, more often, a private home, in many cases somewhere fairly close (ibid.).

Corroborating information on the duties and functions of Imams, including the extent of their participation in community outreach activities could not be found among the sources consulted by the Research Directorate.

This Response was prepared after researching publicly accessible information currently available to the Research Directorate within time constraints. This Response is not, and does not purport to be, conclusive as to the merit of any particular claim for refugee protection. Please find below the list of additional sources consulted in researching this Information Request.

Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP). 19 August 2004. Correspondence from the Joint Director.

The Nation, Bureau Chief, Peshawar.

Internet sites, including: Dawn, Dialog/WNC, European Country of Origin Information Network (ECOI), Human Rights Watch (HRW).