KARACHI:
Extremism is like a cancer, an impending catastrophe that remains a threat to the integrity of the country. In order to survive in an era of rampant conflicts, there is dire need of respect for other faiths and beliefs. But, in order to move forward it is first necessary to elucidate what extremism is in a religious context, since contemporary use of the term “extreme” fails to capture the different interpretations, beliefs, and attitudes defining extreme religious identity.
Firstly, it can be thought of as the imputation of derogatory words against sacred personalities or places. Secondly, it is the twisted rhetoric used to promote and justify extreme acts. And thirdly, it is the ingrained mindset that one religion or sect is the most superior.
Countries like Iraq, Syria, Yemen and Lebanon have been destroyed due to sectarian conflicts carried out by religious extremists — the consequence of which is apparent to the world. Likewise, Pakistan, too, is in murky waters. A country where politics is integrated with religion is bound to breed ignorance and intolerance. The recent example of the provincial elections in G-B is a case in point, where vote was casted on a sectarian basis. Furthermore, religious bigots are another cause for concern. They are neither willing to listen to others’ viewpoint nor do they care for the writ of the state. This type of evil, rooted in extreme ideology, bespatter the peace of country which leads to instability, anarchy and eventually destruction.
The only way forward is to make a sustainable and acceptable religious policy with the consensus of all stakeholders. The active role of religious scholars would be significant in this regard. Only if this issue is settled, Pakistan can steer towards social, political and economic development.
Jaber Abbas Sargana
Rawalpindi
Published in The Express Tribune, October 27th, 2020.
Like Opinion & Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.
