RIYADH, July 4: Saudi Arabia is planning to closely monitor the ‘dawa’ (propagation of Islam) camps, especially during the summer vacation season, with the stated objective of inculcating religious values among the participants. It appears that while Islamabad was grappling with the Lal Masjid issue, Saudi Arabia was endeavouring to be more vigilant and keep an eye on the extremist version of Islam.

The Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Endowment, Dawa and Guidance is expected to begin the implementation of its plan this summer to put an end to exploitation of these camps.

In the past, a series of accusations were levelled against religious camps by a number of intellectual and cultural activists which said that some of these camps were being used by some elements to relay provocative messages against those who hold opinions different than theirs and promote their ideologies.

The Undersecretary of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs told the press that the ministry had taken all measures to ensure that all procedures and regulations are applied to limit the role of these camps.