Religious leaders reject extremist narratives in meeting with federal interior minister

ISLAMABAD, Sep 06: In an important meeting with the Federal Minister for Interior, clerics and prominent religious leaders have unanimously rejected extremist and terrorist ideologies. The meeting, which included a diverse group of Islamic scholars and leaders from various faiths, resulted in the approval of a joint declaration.
Maulana Abdul Khayber Azad addressed the gathering, leading to the consensus statement that emphasizes Islam as a religion of peace, advocating for respect for humanity and a violence-free society. The declaration stressed that interfaith and intercultural harmony is crucial in the current national climate. It unequivocally condemned unjust killings, affirming that Islam does not permit such acts.
The declaration also lauded the sacrifices of the Pakistan Armed Forces, expressing solidarity with the brave and fearless military personnel. It reaffirmed Islam's guarantee of rights for minorities, women, and children.
Further, the declaration highlighted "Message Pakistan" as a powerful narrative to be spread through mosques and communities, calling for unity and cohesion rather than division.
The meeting was attended by prominent figures including Maulana Zia-ur-Rehman, Imam of Faisal Mosque, Maulana Muhammad Tayyib Qureshi, Chief Khateeb of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Allama Mukhtiar Ahmad Nadeem, Chief Khateeb of Punjab, Allama Shabbir Hassan, Secretary General of the Shia Ulema Council of Pakistan, along with other key religious leaders and officials.
Federal Secretary of Interior, Chief Commissioner of Islamabad, IG Police Islamabad, Deputy Commissioner of Islamabad, and other relevant authorities were also present.