Ashrafi urges ulema to renew defence pledge on Sept 6

LAHORE, Sep 05 (APP):Pakistan Ulema Council (PUC) Chairman and Coordinator of the National Peace Committee Hafiz Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi has appealed to religious and community leaders across all schools of thought and faiths, urging them to renew their unwavering commitment to the nation’s security, stability, sovereignty, and defence on the occasion of Pakistan’s Defence Day, observed annually on Sept 6.

In a statement issued on Saturday, Ashrafi called upon all religious and community heads to openly declare their complete solidarity and cooperation with the armed forces of Pakistan and all national security institutions. He stressed the need to stand united against multiple threats, including Fitna-e-Khawarij, Fitna-e-Hindustan, terrorism, and every conspiracy aimed at destabilising the country. He stated that these challenges require a unified national response, with religious leadership playing a pivotal role in fostering resilience and patriotism.

The PUC chairman further directed that the sacrifices and services of the nation’s martyrs (Shuhada) and war heroes (Ghazis) be formally honoured and acknowledged across all places of worship throughout the country. He instructed that special tribute be paid in mosques, seminaries (Madaris), churches, and other religious venues, ensuring that the valour of the armed forces was remembered by all segments of society on this significant day.

Ashrafi also made a heartfelt appeal to religious scholars and the general public to offer special prayers for Pakistan’s continued security, stability, progress, and prosperity. He said that the defence and integrity of Pakistan were intrinsically dependent upon the mutual unity, solidarity, and harmony between the people and the armed forces.