Islamabad, In a significant gathering at the General Headquarters (GHQ), leading Islamic scholars from various schools of thought met with General Syed Asim Munir, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of Pakistan. The meeting focused on reinforcing national efforts against extremism, terrorism, and sectarianism and promoting peace and stability in the country.
According to Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), the Ulema and Mashaikh unanimously condemned extremism, terrorism, and sectarianism, pledging their support for the state and security forces in fostering a tolerant and peaceful society. They emphasized that Islam advocates peace and harmony, distancing the religion from any distorted interpretations used for vested interests. General Munir highlighted the importance of the ‘Paigham-e-Pakistan’ Fatwa by religious scholars, which counters the propaganda of extremists and terrorists. He urged the Ulema and Mashaikh to propagate and implement this message, discouraging internal divisions.
The COAS emphasized the role of Islamic scholars in guiding youth towards a deeper understanding of the Quran and Sunnah, alongside academic and technical education, stressing the need for character building. He declared that intolerance and extremism against any group, particularly minorities and vulnerable segments of society, have no place in Pakistan.
The forum also unanimously supported government measures to strengthen state policies, including repatriating illegal foreigners, implementing the One Document Regime, and launching initiatives against smuggling, hoarding, and power theft. The scholars acknowledged Pakistan’s concerns regarding terrorism originating from Afghan soil and called for action by Afghanistan to address these issues. Additionally, the forum expressed deep concern over the ongoing conflict in Gaza, labeling the atrocities against the people of Gaza as crimes against humanity.
General Munir concluded by affirming that Pakistan is a country for all Pakistanis, regardless of religious, provincial, tribal, linguistic, ethnic, or sectarian differences. He underscored that the use of force or armed action by any group other than the state is unacceptable.