PA holds special session on religion, society, global challenges

LAHORE: A special session was held in the Old Hall of the Punjab Assembly under the Chairmanship of Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan, featuring a keynote address by renowned religious and spiritual scholar Professor Ahmed Rafique Akhtar.

Speaking on the occasion, Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan described Professor Ahmed Rafique Akhtar as a great spiritual personality who emphasises strengthening the bond between God, the Quran, and humanity. He highlighted that moderation is the key to getting closer to the Almighty.

In his address, Professor Ahmed Rafique Akhtar provided deep insights into religion, society and current global challenges. He criticised democracy for not granting the same level of empowerment as Islam does. He remarked, "When a nation is destined to collapse, it takes merely a moment." He added that Europe and America have failed to progress and their attempts to erase Muslims from existence have been unsuccessful. He reassured the audience that Pakistan is indivisible and that even its lost parts will eventually reunite.

Discussing Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Professor Ahmed Rafique Akhtar said that Jinnah's struggle was not for personal recognition but to establish Pakistan for a grand purpose.

Addressing corruption, he observed that while many have become wealthy through dishonest means, this ideology will eventually fade, paving the way for common people to thrive. He emphasised that the eradication of corruption is vital to achieving social justice.

On sustenance, Professor Ahmed Rafique Akhtar stated that out of the 17 creations of the universe, only humans claim to earn their livelihood independently, a notion rejected by God. He pointed out that despite six billion people denying God, He continues to provide sustenance for all.

He stressed the importance of repentance, saying that while humans are prone to wrongdoing due to their physical and external influences, repentance offers them a chance to renew their lives. Towards the end of his speech, Professor Ahmed Rafique Akhtar said, "The arrival of Holy Prophet (PBUH) shattered the dreams of the Jews."

Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan praised Professor Ahmed Rafique Akhtar's thoughts, describing them as a blend of spiritual, social, and moral teachings that serve as a guiding light for society. The session also addressed public issues, with a focus on the challenges faced by Gujar Khan. Professor Ahmed Rafique Akhtar emphasised the need for an angioplasty machine for heart patients in the area and urged for better resources and management in local universities.

Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan assured the provision of a cardiac machine in Gujar Khan and pledged to resolve the issues faced by universities and land management soon. The session provided an opportunity not only to reflect on spiritual and social challenges but also to discuss significant steps for public welfare and development.

Prominent attendees included Deputy Speaker Zaheer Iqbal Channar, former Speaker Rana Muhammad Iqbal, MPA Zakia Shahnawaz, Secretary General Punjab Assembly Chaudhry Amer Habib, and other members of the Assembly.