The National Commission on the Status of Women (NSCW) condemned the assassination of Punjab Governor Salmaan Taseer, terming it a horrific and tragic murder of a liberal and progressive mind, according to a press release by the NCSW.
“This is a great loss not just to his family but to the entire struggle and movement against retrogressive forces to build a peaceful, tolerant and just society. In his death, Pakistan has been deprived of a liberal, educated and courageous leader,” the press release said.
“When most political leaders backed down in the face of blackmailing by religious zealots, he stood his ground. His assassination must be seen as a blatant crime and cold-blooded murder.
“The issue must not be defused by a religious or political smokes screen,” NCSW stated.
“His murderers should be expeditiously tried and convicted. Those inciting crimes in the name of religion must equally be held responsible. We expect the media to play a responsible role and not allow itself to be used for inciting violence,” the press release said.
Published in The Express Tribune, January 6th, 2011.
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