Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has called on religious scholars to support the government’s efforts to combat terrorism and extremism in Pakistan. Speaking to a delegation of Ulema and Mashaikh in Islamabad, Naqvi emphasized the need for collective action to ensure the country’s development and prosperity.
In light of Defence Day, observed today, Naqvi asserted that anyone who takes up arms against the state is considered a terrorist and will be met with strict measures. He condemned the killing of innocent people in the name of religion, stating that such actions are contrary to Islamic teachings.
The minister urged terrorists and extremists to abandon their weapons and accept the authority of the state and its constitution. He also promised that the suggestions from Ulema and Mashaikh would be taken into account to effectively eradicate terrorism.
Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, emphasized the crucial role of Ulema and Mashaikh in societal reform. Chairman of the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad, urged religious leaders to contribute actively to the nation’s defense, similar to their role during Pakistan’s independence.
Maulana Azad highlighted that over a thousand Ulema from various schools of thought have signed a decree under the Paigham-e-Pakistan initiative. This decree unanimously condemns suicide attacks, armed insurgency against the state, and the use of force to impose Shariah as ‘Haram’ (forbidden) in Islam. He assured the Interior Minister of the Ulema’s support in the fight against terrorism and extremism.
