Islamabad (HRNW) Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir has said that the use of force and armed action by any organization or group other than the state is unacceptable, and there is no place for intolerance and extremist behavior, especially against minorities and weaker sections.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Ulemas and Mashaikhs held a meeting with General Asim Munir in which they unanimously condemned extremism, terrorism, and sectarianism.
On the occasion, the Army Chief said that Pakistan belongs to every citizen without any discrimination based on religion, province, or any other factor, and any use of force or armed action by any organization or group outside the state framework is unacceptable.
He stressed that there is no place for intolerance and extremist behavior against anyone, especially targeting minorities and vulnerable groups.
The religious scholars, in unanimous support, pledged to uphold peace efforts by the state and the relentless endeavors of the security forces. They highlighted that Islam inherently embodies principles of peace and harmony, disavowing any distorted interpretations propagated by certain factions for their personal agendas.
Acknowledging the Fatwa ‘Paigam Pakistan’ issued by the Ulema to counter misleading extremist propaganda, General Munir commended their efforts. He urged the religious scholars to counter any misleading narratives and bridge internal differences, emphasizing their role in guiding youth to understand the essence of the Holy Quran and Sunnah to build character.
During the forum, unanimous backing was extended for the repatriation of illegal immigrants and the implementation of a document system by the government of Pakistan. The gathering also advocated measures against smuggling, hoarding, and electricity theft.
On the geopolitical front, the assembly supported Pakistan’s stance and concerns regarding terrorism originating from Afghan soil. The forum urged Afghanistan to take concrete steps to address Pakistan’s reservations.
Expressing deep sorrow over the conflict in Gaza, the attendees condemned the atrocities inflicted upon innocent Palestinians, denouncing these acts as crimes against humanity.