Punjab Government Initiates Dialogue for Provincial Peace
In a significant move to foster religious harmony and ensure lasting peace, the Punjab government has embarked on a series of consultative meetings with prominent religious scholars. This initiative is being conducted under the direct directions of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif and is centered at the provincial home department.
High-Level Meeting with Shia Scholars Delegation
Marking a key step in this process, Punjab Minister for Health and Chairman of the Cabinet Committee on Law and Order, Khawaja Salman Rafique, presided over a detailed meeting on Monday. The session involved a delegation from Wifaq-ul-Madaris Al-Shi'a Pakistan, which was led by Dr. Muhammad Hussain Akbar, the spiritual leader of the Minhaj-ul-Hussain Organization.
The delegation included several esteemed members, ensuring broad representation:
- Allama Muhammad Afzal Haideri (Central Secretary General)
- Allama Syed Mureed Hussain Naqvi (Vice President)
- Muhammad Ghulam Baqir Ghaloo
- Lal Hussain Towhidi
- Allama Muhammad Sabtain Akbar
- Allama Syed Mohsin Ali Shah
- Qari Syed Izkar Hussain Naqvi
- Maulana Syed Mustansar Abbas Kazmi
The government's side was equally robust, with senior officials such as Secretary Home Dr. Ahmed Javed Qazi, Secretary Auqaf Syed Tahir Raza Bukhari, the DIG Special Branch, Additional Secretary Internal Security Ehsan Jamali, and CEO Punjab Charities Commission Colonel Shahzad Amir in attendance.
Commitment to Peace and Scholars' Pivotal Role
During the talks, Khawaja Salman Rafique warmly welcomed the delegation and reaffirmed the government's unwavering commitment. He emphasized that the Punjab government is dedicated to strengthening inter-faith and inter-Muslim harmony throughout the province.
"Pakistan's progress lies in peace and prosperity," stated Rafique. He highlighted that "Islam is a religion of tolerance, brotherhood, and compassion," and stressed the crucial role that religious scholars play in guiding society toward unity and stability.
Echoing this sentiment, Secretary Home Dr. Ahmed Javed Qazi assured the delegation that resolving issues faced by scholars and imams is a top priority for the administration. He called the promotion of peace and the countering of violence a shared responsibility.
"Educating the people about the true spirit of Islam is among the greatest services of the ulema," Dr. Qazi added, acknowledging the vital contribution of religious leaders.
Scholars Pledge Support and Propose Collaboration
The delegation of scholars from Wifaq-ul-Madaris Al-Shi'a Pakistan responded positively to the government's outreach. They reaffirmed their full support for the efforts aimed at strengthening harmony among Muslims.
Furthermore, the scholars put forward constructive proposals designed to enhance coordination between religious educational institutions and the government. This collaborative approach is seen as a foundational step towards achieving the shared goal of a peaceful and prosperous Punjab.
