Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Inter-Faith Harmony, Mufti Abdul Shakoor here on Thursday said that the minority communities were enjoying complete religious freedom in Pakistan and could freely observe their religious rituals without any fear. The Minister expressed these views as chief guest while addressing a conference titled ‘Inter-faith harmony and present day requirements’ organized by the Federal Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, at a local hotel.
“There are no restrictions on minorities regarding practicing of their religious obligations at churches, temples, Gurdwaras and others respective worships places,” he said, adding that Islam was the religion of peace, brotherhood and emphasizes on mutual coexistence and showing respect to others’ believes. He said Islam prohibits all kinds of violence including militancy, extremism and torture and those killing innocent people have no religion.
Mufti Abdul Shakoor said the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was sent by Allah Almighty for the guidance of entire humanity and strictly adhering to the teaching of Holy Quran and ‘Serah’ of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) was a beacon of light for mankind of all ages. He said the Constitution of Pakistan had protected the rights of minorities and allocated reserved seats in the Parliament and provincial assemblies for them. He said that JUI-F had played key role in the election of minorities’ MNA James Iqbal and MPA KP Ranjeet Singh.
