Peace indispensable for country’s security: Khabir Azad

Chairman Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, Maulana Syed Muhammad Abdul Khabir Azad, said that peace and stability were indispensable for country’s security and national progress, urging religious scholars and preachers to promote unity and avoid hatred speeches during Muharram-ul-Haram. He expressed these views while addressing an interfaith harmony meeting held in Multan as part of the “Peace Caravan” initiative launched on the special directives of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif to ensure peaceful observance of Muharram. The meeting was attended by Multan Commissioner Aamir Karim Khan, Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Nauman Siddique, City Police Officer Sadiq Ali Dogar, senior district officials, religious scholars from all schools of thought and members of peace committees. Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad said the entire nation and religious leadership stand united behind the national agenda for stability and security. He termed the launch of interfaith harmony caravans a commendable initiative and stressed that Pakistan, founded on the principles of the “Kalima Tayyaba”, requires collective efforts for its protection and prosperity. He said promoting interfaith harmony, national stability and the message of peace remains the need of the hour. Paying tribute to the armed forces, he said their sacrifices for the defence of the country are a source of national pride. The Ruet-e-Hilal Committee chairman urged scholars and religious leaders to respect the beliefs of all sects and refrain from provocative rhetoric. “Follow your own school of thought but do not target others,” he remarked, adding that the sacrifices of Hazrat Umar Farooq (RA) and Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) continue to inspire the Muslim Ummah. Commissioner Aamir Karim Khan expressed confidence that Muharram would pass peacefully in an atmosphere of unity and brotherhood.—APP