Islamabad, Hafiz Tahir Mehmood Ashrafi, the Prime Minister’s Special Representative on Religious Affairs, has highlighted the critical role of religious scholars in propagating the true essence of Islam.
According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, speaking at an event in Islamabad today, Ashrafi called on religious leaders and communities to actively participate in countering misinformation and ensuring the accurate communication of Islamic teachings. He stressed the importance of continuous education in fostering unity and combating detrimental propaganda that may threaten national interests.
Karachi, The caretaker Chief Minister of Sindh, Justice Maqbool Baqar, emphasized the importance of religious equality and introspection at a conference focused on minority rights, stating that no citizen should feel marginalized due to their religious beliefs.
According to Chief Minister Sindh, speaking at the event organized by the Department for Minorities Affairs in collaboration with the Pakistan Arts Council, Justice Baqar highlighted the dangers of weaponizing religion and fostering radicalism. He pointed out that such actions have led to bigotry and parochialism in society.
The Chief Minister underscored that conferences like this reaffirm the commitment to protecting the rights of non-Muslim citizens, especially their freedom to profess, practice, and propagate their faith. He stressed the need for confronting uncomfortable truths for a better future.
Justice Baqar criticized the Indian Supreme Court’s decision to validate the construction of a temple on the site of the Babri Mosque and praised Pakistani courts for upholding religious liberties in the face of pressure from radical groups. He referenced key Supreme Court judgments, including the suo motu cognizance of the Peshawar church attack in 2014 and progressive rulings in Tahir Naqash’s and Salamat Mansha’s cases, which acknowledged the rights of Ahmedis and granted bail to a person accused of offences against religion.
The Chief Minister lamented the failure to protect non-Muslim citizens in Pakistan and rejected the use of the term ‘minority,’ advocating for a society where no citizen feels like a minority due to their religious affiliation. He highlighted the need for concerted efforts to eliminate radical groups and promote progressive alliances.
Justice Baqar called for compliance with international conventions like the ICCPR to expand religious freedom and emphasized the importance of building a pluralistic, democratic, and progressive Pakistan where religious beliefs do not limit opportunities. He concluded by asserting that peace and prosperity depend on pluralism and diversity.