Alvi seeks Ulema’s role to help end protests

President Dr Arif Alvi on Friday urged the Ulema to play role in diffusing the ongoing tense situation in the country by promoting Islam’s true message of peace.

“Islam stresses upon affinity and harmony among mankind,” he said in a consultative meeting with a delegation of Ulema of Ahle-e-Sunnat Wal Jamaat from different districts across the country led by Religious Affairs Minister Noorul Haq Qadri here at the Aiwan-e-Sadr.

They deliberated upon various options to address the current situation in a peaceful manner and stressed the need for resolving the matter through negotiations.

“Since the establishment of Pakistan, the Ulema always played a significant role in providing moral and religious guidance to people besides standing with the state in difficult times,” he said.

He added that the incumbent government raised its voice against Islamophobia and for the sanctity of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) at all international fora and advocated the stance in an “effective manner.”

The government also set up the Rehmatul Lil Alameen Authority, which would promote the glowing teachings of the Prophet (PBUH) and guide the nation to follow in his footsteps for success in this life and hereafter, he added.

Alvi said: “Islam is a religion of peace and urges mankind to practice brotherhood and tolerance. It also stresses upon protecting the lives and property of each other and discourages acts of violence.”

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The Ulema expressed concern over the reports of violence causing harm to the lives and property of the general public. They stressed that violence would negatively impact the image of the country as well as Islam.

The Ulema offered their support and services to resolve the situation peacefully and in an amicable way.

Meanwhile, Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry also called upon Ulema to play their role in maintaining peace by discouraging elements using the name of Islam for political gains.

“Creating unrest and engaging people in the name of religion is a disservice to Islam,” he told reporters in an apparent reference to the proscribed Tehreek-e-Labbaik (TLP)’s an ongoing long march.

He said the finality of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) could not be used for political gains as it was not only “politically uncivilized, but also had a bad impact on Islam.”

“There was 97 per cent population of Muslims in the country,” he said, “the belief on Islam could not be completed without accepting the concepts of ‘Toheed’ and ‘Risalat’ whole-heartedly.”