Punjab stops honorariums for clerics spreading hate or anti-state rhetoric

Home Department clears 66,000 imams after initial scrutiny based on security, intelligence reports

The Punjab government has decided to stop awarding honorariums to religious scholars who make statements against state policies. The provincial government has also announced strict action against clerics promoting hate speeches and anti-state activities.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has approved this policy following recommendations from the Punjab Home Department. The policy specifies that honorariums will only be awarded to responsible, law-abiding clerics. Government privileges will be completely denied to those who spread hate.

The Punjab Home Department explained that the honorary scheme aims to promote peace, harmony, and national unity. No leniency will be shown for any violations of the law. Clerics found involved in hate speech or anti-state rhetoric will be promptly removed from the list.

The department added that initial scrutiny, based on security and intelligence reports, has been completed, confirming that 66,000 imams in the province have been cleared after meeting all legal requirements.

According to the Home Department, no anti-state activity has been proven against those who have obtained the necessary No Objection Certificates (NOCs), and these individuals are fully compliant with the law and highly respected.

The department further stated that the screening and monitoring of the honorary list will continue. Strict checks will be implemented in the future, and any individuals found disturbing public order will not receive government honors or support.

The Punjab government has taken a firm stance against extremism, emphasising the necessity for a responsible role in promoting religious harmony. The government declared that any misuse of the honorary scheme will not be tolerated, while full religious freedom will be maintained within the bounds of the law.

Punjab Home Department Secretary Ahmad Javed Qazi stated that there is no room for anti-state narratives, and the policy is clear. Instructions have been issued at the district level to implement the honorary policy.