Let’s do our little part in trying to make it so
TEXAS, US: The recent tragic events of raiding Ahmadi places of worship and administrative offices as well as unlawful imprisonment of Ahmadis is a reminder of another dark chapter in the Pakistani legacy. It is incredulous to think that a nation once founded on the grounds of freedom and equality for the minorities in then British-India would marginalise present-day minority groups and refute them their inalienable right to live in peace and observe their religion freely.
Sadly, these perpetrators do not realise that the true teachings of any religion point to live and let live in harmony, and uphold the values of equality and justice for all. If Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was alive today, he would be appalled by these shameful acts carried out in his name. In his farewell address, he clearly stated, “To take any man’s life or his property, or attack his honour, is as unjust and wrong as to violate the sacredness of this day, this month, and this territory.”
Certainly, the disgraceful acts of some will leave another dark and gruesome mark in Pakistan’s history. These radical groups have brought immense shame and disgrace to Pakistanis devoted to peace, justice, and equality. How long will Pakistani citizens continue to succumb to this radicalisation and ignorance? I urge all fair-minded Pakistanis to raise awareness in this regard in their circle of friends to help educate our not so strong-minded brethren to wake up, denounce and hold authorities accountable for these assaults and the persecution of Ahmadis and other minorities, which has been going on for decades. Our Pakistan is better than this. Let’s do our little part in trying to make it so.
Nadia Ahmad
Published in The Express Tribune, December 18th, 2016.
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