SPECIAL REPORTER
RAWALPINDI: The National Commission for Justice and Peace (NCJP) organized an event titled “Interfaith Harmony and Peace – Our Shared Need” at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Double Road, Rawalpindi. The program was presided over by Reverend Father Sarfraz Simon, Regional Director NCJP, while the proceedings were moderated by Tariq Ghori, Regional Coordinator. Distinguished speakers included Syeda Sadia Bukhari (Council Member, Human Rights Commission of Pakistan), Allama Tahir Aqeel Awan (Member Punjab Quran Board & Chairman Pakistan Ulema Council Punjab), Allama Syed Mustafa Haider Naqvi (renowned religious scholar), Nisar Kayani (Secretary Information, All Kashmir Newspapers Society), Bheem Raj Sarwan Bheel (leader of Hindu Scheduled Caste Community), and Aamir Javed (Field Staff Member, NCJP). Reverend Father Sarfraz Simon emphasized that promoting interfaith harmony is the need of the hour to address Pakistan’s social challenges. Respecting each other’s beliefs and traditions is essential for fostering tolerance in society. Syeda Sadia Bukhari highlighted that Pakistan is a multi-religious and multicultural country where every citizen enjoys equal rights and religious freedom under Articles 20 and 25 of the Constitution. She paid tribute to the sacrifices of minority communities in the creation of Pakistan and acknowledged their continued role in the nation’s progress. She further stressed that adopting the narrative of peace is imperative, as all religions preach love, harmony, and coexistence. Allama Syed Mustafa Haider Naqvi, quoting various verses from the Holy Quran, stated that Allah has addressed all humanity with the words “Ya Ayyuhan Naas”. Citing an example from the life of Hazrat Ali (A.S.), he noted how a nonMuslim elderly man in Kufa was granted state support from Bait-ul-Maal. He described this as a true model of a welfare state founded on service to humanity beyond religious divisions. Allama Tahir Aqeel Awan asserted that no religion is complete without the message of love. Humanity, he said, is the foremost common value, which must serve as the foundation for promoting brotherhood and mutual respect. Nisar Kayani remarked that religion is not a matter of personal choice, and therefore, hatred or discrimination based on religion is sheer injustice. The narrative of peace alone can guarantee social harmony. Bheem Raj Sarwan Bheel underscored the importance of continuing the journey of interfaith tolerance, particularly for raising awareness among the youth about different religions. Aamir Javed shed light on NCJP’s efforts, stating that the commission was founded in 1985 and has since been actively working for the promotion of human rights, elimination of religious and social discrimination, and advancement of peace and harmony. At the conclusion of the event, all speakers reaffirmed their commitment to building a Pakistan that truly reflects the vision of Quaid-e-Azam and the Constitution— where all citizens enjoy equal rights, freedom, and justice.
