Ulema Pledge To Preach Tolerance, Unity In Sermons.

LAHORE -- A special meeting of the Ittehad Bain-ul-Muslimeen Committee Punjab, under the aegis of the auqaf department, was held under the chair of Punjab Chief Minister Ch Parvez Elahi on Wednesday.

Ulema and mashaikh of different schools of thought attended the huddle which urged harmony and peace in the country especially during the holy month of Muharram.

A joint declaration issued at the end of the meeting recognized the role of religious scholars and ulema in the creation of Pakistan and noted that its stability was a bright point in national history.

'The objective conditions of the country require that scholars and religious figures should continue playing their key role, as always, for national unity, stability, harmony and peace in the country. The ulema assure the nation, through the Punjab government, that they are fully aware of the requirements of defence of the country. We will stand united with the nation like a solid rock when necessary. Ulema, Khatteeb and Zakirs will adopt a moderate and positive attitude in their sermons', the ulema pledged in their statement.

The declaration further stated that the religion of Islam teaches showing tolerance towards 'ahle-e-kitab' and non-Muslims; so, the ulema will emphasize tolerance and unity of Muslims in their sermons and will completely reject differences, especially during Muharram to help establish peace and harmony.

The ulema of all schools of thought also agreed not to hurt the feelings of any Muslim and they will strictly adhere to this policy. 'Terrorism and killings in the name of religion are anti-Islam and we strongly condemn them. We will avoid such writings and speeches that could hurt any school of thought'.

It was further stated in the declaration that the country was going through a critical period in its history and they were determined to strengthen and stabilize the country by making it a cradle of peace and stability by showing patience, courage and prudence. 'We pray to Almighty Allah to protect our beloved homeland and make our efforts of promoting unity among Muslims fruitful'.

Also, the meeting offered Fateha for the martyrs of the army helicopter crash and the people who lost their lives in rain-related incidents in the country and extended sympathies to the bereaved families.

The significant initiative of Chief Minister Parvez Elahi for making the affidavit of the Finality of Prophethood (PBUH) mandatory in the marriage certificate was appreciated in strong...