Ulema close ranks against terrorism

ISLAMABAD:

Religious scholars belonging to all schools of thought on Friday delivered a unified message against extremism, terrorism and sectarian violence, reaffirming their unwavering support for the state, society and the armed forces of Pakistan.

The country observed 'Youm-e-Paigham-e-Pakistan' on the call of the Youm-e-Paigham-e-Pakistan Committee, with Ulema, Mashaikh, Imams, Khateebs, Zakireen and other religious figures using Friday sermons to urge the faithful to uphold the national narrative against terrorism.

From Karachi to Khyber, prominent scholars addressed Friday congregations, calling on the public to understand and adhere to the Paigham-e-Pakistan consensus Fatwa and the broader national stance rejecting violence and extremism.

They unanimously declared that Islam has no association with terrorism, asserting that those who perpetrate violence in the name of religion are rebels against Islam, deviants (Khawarij), and liable to divine punishment.

Citing the Quran and Sunnah, the scholars stressed that Pakistan is an Islamic state and that attacks on its institutions, armed forces, religious scholars and citizens — Muslim and non-Muslim alike — are strictly forbidden. Such acts, they said, amount to open defiance of the commands of Allah and His Messenger (Peace Be Upon Him).