ISLAMABAD: In a remarkable show of unity, Pakistan’s religious scholars and political leaders joined hands on Wednesday by announcing the ‘Islamabad Declaration’ to foster interfaith and intra-faith harmony, especially in light of the recent Jaranwala incident.
Convened at the ‘Our Lady of Fatima Church’ in the federal capital, the joint conference saw leaders from various backgrounds unequivocally condemn the horrific incident in Jaranwala. They collectively called for quick trials and exemplary punishment for those allegedly responsible for this inhumane act.
The leaders also urged the government to conduct an impartial and thorough investigation into the incident, with a strong emphasis on transparency and accountability, adding the results of the investigation should be made public.
Exemplary Interfaith Harmony in Pakistan
The commendable steps taken by the federal and Punjab governments, such as compensating the victims’ families and allocating funds for the rehabilitation of religious sites belonging to the Christian community in the affected region, were acknowledged. While appreciating these actions, the leaders urged authorities to expedite the entire process to provide much-needed relief to the affected community.
Addressing the gathering, Pakistan Ulema Council Chairman Hafiz Tahir Ashrafi clarified that the tragic incident in Jaranwala did not target the Christian community alone, but rather impacted Pakistan as a whole. He highlighted the collective sorrow over the destruction of young girls’ dowries, as well as the personal and financial losses incurred due to destroyed homes and savings.
Ashrafi stressed that those responsible for such acts could not represent any religion. He reminded that the Constitution and legal system were aligned with the principles of the Quran and Sunnah, ensuring protection and rights for non-Muslims.
To address the incident, leaders from both the Christian and Muslim communities established a 24-member committee actively investigating all aspects of the incident to ensure justice, Ashrafi disclosed.
He underscored the teachings of Prophet Muhammad and the Quran, emphasizing peace, brotherhood, and unity. He made a direct plea to the Chief Justice of Pakistan for a speedy trial for the Jaranwala incident, emphasizing the paramount importance of justice and accountability.
Prominent Christian leader Dr. Arshad Joseph voiced gratitude for the delegation and highlighted the need for collective introspection following such incidents. He stressed respecting each other’s religions and fostering religious tolerance.
Special Court Demanded Jaranwala Incident
Chairman of the Council of Islamic Ideology, Dr. Qibla Ayaz, has urged the establishment of a dedicated court to investigate and conduct the trial of those accused in the Jaranwala incident. Dr. Ayaz emphasized the need for swift and streamlined proceedings to ensure prompt justice.
Leader of Jamaat-e-Islami, Mian Muhammad Aslam, expressed an unwavering commitment to ongoing efforts aimed at ensuring justice for the accused. He also pledged financial support to the Christian community during this challenging period.
In closing, Dr. Arshad Joseph emphasized the Christian community’s crucial role in Pakistan’s progress and the nation’s shared journey towards harmony and development.
