LAHORE, Feb 09 (APP): Prime Minister’s Coordinator for Religious Harmony and Pakistan Ulema Council (PUC) Chairman Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi called for a united national effort to confront terrorism and safeguard the country’s security and social harmony.
Addressing a joint session of religious scholars, elders and leaders of other faiths on counterterrorism at a local hotel, on Monday, he said that those spreading extremist ideology and inciting violence in Pakistan would not be spared and would face strict legal action. He added that the joint session unanimously decided that individuals involved in extremism, blasphemy or aiding such elements would be subjected to stringent punishment. He described extremist groups as enemies of Pakistan and the Muslim community, stressing the need for a united national response to counter them. He warned that sectarianism had no place in Pakistan, citing the Islamabad tragedy as evidence that the nation stood united against terrorism irrespective of sect or faith, and vowed that anyone spreading hatred or promoting extremism would be made an example through strict legal action.
Ashrafi lauded law enforcement agencies for swiftly apprehending the accomplices of the Islamabad attacker within five hours and said the authorities remained in close coordination to ensure medical treatment for the injured and support for the families of the martyrs.
He also urged recognition of the bravery of martyr Aoun Abbas, who sacrificed his life to save hundreds, saying he deserved Pakistan’s highest civil and military honours.
Ashrafi further asserted that facilitation of terrorism in Pakistan was originating from Afghanistan, with India and Israel backing such activities. He said that following the attack, a coordinated campaign against Pakistan was launched through financial and social media accounts operated from India.
Other participants, including Maulana Hussain Akbar, Qasim Ali Qasmi, Syed Ziaullah Shah Bukhari, Maulana Kareem Khan, Maulana Muhammad Asim Makhdoom, Hafiz Muhammad Zubair, Mufti Muhammad Ramzan Sialvi and Syed Kazim Raza, also addressed the gathering. Participants demonstrated unity by holding hands, while the session concluded with prayers for national security and prosperity.