Say access to justice prerequisite for a tolerant society. PHOTO: FILE
While speaking at a gathering titled, “Time to teach and preach tolerance”, held under the aegis of the Pakistan Intellectual Forum (PIF), they urged all and sundry to fight the menace of increasing trend of intolerance in the society.
Noted writer and researcher Dr Hyder Sindhi said individuals must take initiatives to become tolerant teachers and preachers within their own families, organisations and communities to foster and tolerate opposing views and opinions.
“Our governments and public sector organisations must adhere to the international standards for human rights and stop discrimination against all vulnerable groups, especially the religious minorities,” he said.
Federal Judicial Academy Media Officer Hashim Abro said, “Tolerance is a major theme and concept of Indus civilisation teachings. Sufis, saints and sages of the Indus Valley Civilization believed in humanity above all other profane things.
“Intolerance of any kind is anathema and totally contrary to the teachings of the sages,” he said.
In the prevalent complex situation, education on the basis of the mystics’ teachings will be the best investment to save our society from drifting into the abyss of ignorance.”
Prof Dr Qasim Rind from Preston University said, “Promotion of tolerance is the need of the hour. All those who value life and humanity must come forward to play their part for the promotion of tolerant culture. “They should tell the intolerant individuals and groups that the Creator is disinterested in outward physical appearances and characteristics and is only concerned with behaviour, good deeds and unity.”
Renowned writer and lawyer Khadim Hussain Abro said, “It is incumbent upon the followers of all religions to eschew all forms of biases and prejudices.”
Published in The Express Tribune, April 21st, 2014.
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