Push for Muslim Cemetery in Lothian After Burial Space Concerns

A meeting happened at the Scottish Parliament. The meeting focused on Muslim burial needs. People want a dedicated Muslim cemetery in Lothian. Foysol Choudhury, an MSP, hosted the meeting.

Edinburgh’s Muslim population faces burial space limits. Religious customs require quick burials, causing stress. Ratho Cemetery has only 80 plots left, while Midlothian has allocated 200 spaces. Craigmillar Castle Park Cemetery is uncertain, and current spaces do not meet community needs.

Leaders want a not-for-profit Muslim cemetery, similar to London’s Garden of Peace. Choudhury engaged with Edinburgh Council teams; they sought suitable sites like Mortonhall House and suggested Prestonpans. No decisions are final so far.

Choudhury stated the situation isn’t sustainable. He said the community needs a permanent solution that respects Islamic traditions and must offer dignity for future generations.

Attendees want officials to quickly collaborate to establish a sustainable cemetery. This cemetery should serve the community for 100 years. Choudhury stressed the need for collaboration between leaders to secure land for a permanent cemetery, ensuring it serves future Muslim generations.