Religious leaders call for interfaith harmony

PESHAWAR: The religious leaders on Monday stressed the need for forging harmony among the followers of different religions to promote tolerance and patience.

Speaking at a news conference, Allama Syed Jawad Hadi from Shia community highlighted the significance of the holy month of Muharram, which gives the message of tolerance, unity and peace. He said the country was faced with internal and external threats, which should be warded off by forging unity.

Leader of Shia Ulema Council, Allama Hamid Emami, Allama Hassan Kararvi, Allama Irshad Hussain Khalili, Allama Nazir Hussain, Maulana Iqbal Haideri from Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam, Bishop of Peshawar Humphrey Sarfaraz Peters, Haroon Sarab Diyal and Radish Tony from Hindu and Sikh communities were also present.

Allama Hadi urged the people belonging to different faiths and sects to promote unity and brotherhood during Muharram to thwart the nefarious designs of the enemies of the country. He pledged to work for the promotion of interfaith harmony and assured the administration of full cooperation in maintaining law and order during Muharram.

Haroon Sarab Diyal asked the provincial government to take tangible steps for protection of minorities. Humphrey Sarfaraz Peters voiced concern over non-implementation of directives of superior judiciary to protect the minorities in the province. He asked the government to take measures for safety and security of Muslims and minorities. Allama Hamid Emami expressed satisfaction at the overall security arrangements for protection of mourning processions during Muharram.