Interfaith peace and harmony: Ullema convention vows to stand united

Shehbaz says Pakistan cannot afford a chaotic situation

LAHORE: In yet another attempt to dispel impression created after Rana Sanaullah’s controversial interview that attracted stiff criticism from religious circles, the Punjab government organised an Ullema convention on Sunday.

More than 150 Ullema and Mashaikh attended the convention held under the chairmanship of Punjab Chief Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The worthy Mashaikh presented a number of suggestions for the promotion of religious harmony, tolerance and peace in society. The chief minister applauded these suggestions. Pir Riaz Hussain Shah of Jamaat-e-Ahl-e- Sunnat Pakistan prayed for the development and stability of the country. The ceremony was attended by the spiritual leaders of the famous mudaaris, mashaikh, gadi nasheen and sajjadgan of the Punjab.

It was stated in the joint statement of the convention that Ulema were well aware of the needs and demands of the national defence, and when needed, they will stand united as a bulwark. The statement further said Khatm-e-Nabuwwat (finality of prophethood) and love for Allah’s prophet was the base of their faith.

Addressing the convention, Shehbaz said Pakistan was passing through a crucial time and could not afford a chaos-like situation.

“Disputes, divisions and internal differences are harmful for the country’s prestige and integrity. The current situation in Pakistan demands mutual consensus for which religious scholars have to play a key role. It is essential that monasteries and shrines should spread the message of tolerance, endurance, worship, social welfare, justice, fair distribution of resources and patience,” he said.

He shared that faith on finality of prophethood and love for the holy prophet was the basis of religious identity.

 

Published in The Express Tribune, January 8^th, 2018.