China Tightens Rules For Practicing Muslims

October 19, 2008 5:51 a.m. EST

(AHN) - The Chinese government is attempting to limit prayer time and areas of worship for practicing Muslims in the northwestern part of the nation, which some see as an effort to control the growth of Islam.

Posted signs outside some mosques reportedly direct Muslims not to go longer than one half-hour in prayer and also not to pray outside of them, as well.

Khotan residents are also prohibited from worshipping at moques outside of their town, reportedly angering some citizens.

People who are upset with the rules do not express their concerns, however, for fear of retribution from the government.

China's rules on Islam stretch from public into other facets of life, as well, as only official versions of the Quran are acceptable to use and Imams are forbidden from teaching from the book in private.

Government officials have said the measures are necessary to contain forces from inside and outside China from tearing the region apart.

Scholars outside the region argue that the tactics being used to stifle Islam could backfire and result in more terrorist groups and activities.