Federal Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi, in a discussion with religious scholars on September 6, reiterated that any individual or organisation taking up arms against the state is considered a terrorist.
According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, he emphasised that no one has the right to kill in the name of religion. He further urged militants to surrender and acknowledge the authority of the state, the Constitution, and the law, highlighting that they still have an opportunity to lay down their arms.
Addressing the scholars, Naqvi stated, "We are being pushed into a fire that we cannot escape without the support of religious leaders. Pakistan comes first for all of us, and we must unite as a nation to defeat terrorism. We must prevent those exploiting Islam and religion to incite terrorism."
The meeting in Islamabad was attended by Federal Minister of Religious Affairs Chaudhry Salik Hussain, and various religious leaders from all schools of thought under the leadership of Chairman Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad.
Naqvi stressed that the government has initiated consultations with scholars and leaders of various religions to eliminate terrorism. He added that he and Minister Salik Hussain would lead this national mission.
He called for unity, saying, "Our religion and Constitution clearly state that anyone who takes up arms against the state is a terrorist. Islam and our country's laws do not permit unjust killings."
The Interior Minister also announced plans to visit every province and meet with chief ministers and religious scholars to deliver the same message from provincial capitals. He assured that the President and the Prime Minister are also working tirelessly towards this goal.
Naqvi called on scholars to raise their voices against those misusing the name of Islam and to help stop the exploitation of religion.
Minister of Religious Affairs, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, emphasised the need to protect the new generation from the destructive path of violence. He urged collaboration among the government, institutions, and religious scholars to secure a safe future for Pakistan.
Salik Hussain added that protecting the life and property of every citizen is the state’s responsibility, and religious leaders should work towards reforming the people and opposing those who take up arms against the state.
Following the meeting, a joint declaration was also approved, rejecting the narratives of extremists and terrorists. It stated that Islam is a religion of peace that teaches respect for humanity and a society free from violence.
The declaration highlighted the importance of inter-sectarian and interfaith harmony and national unity, considering the current situation in the country. The declaration honoured the sacrifices of the Pakistani Armed Forces and reaffirmed the nation’s solidarity with its brave soldiers.
The declaration also underscored that Islam guarantees the rights of minorities, women, and children. It called for making "Paigham-e-Pakistan" (Message of Pakistan) a voice heard in every home through mosques and pulpits, stressing that this is a time for unity and reconciliation rather than division and discord within the country.
The meeting included prominent religious figures such as Maulana Zia-ur-Rehman, Imam of Faisal Mosque, Maulana Muhammad Tayyab Qureshi, Chief Khatib of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and many other distinguished leaders from various sects and religions.
The Federal Secretary of the Interior, Chief Commissioner Islamabad, IG Police Islamabad, Deputy Commissioner Islamabad, and other relevant officials were also present in the meeting.