September 22, 2006	Friday	Sha'aban 28, 1427

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ISLAMABAD, Sept 21: The Council of Islamic Ideology (CII) has objected to government move of sidelining it and holding consultations with outside religious elements over amendments to the women’s protection bill seeking changes in Hudood laws and has decided to meet President Pervez Musharraf to register its protest.

“Though we have already forwarded our resentment on bypassing the constitutional body, we are waiting for an audience with the president when he returns home after completing his visit to the United States,” CII Chairman Dr Mohammad Khalid Masood told Dawn.

On Thursday, the 12-member CII met to consider the resignation tendered by its member Dr Javed Ahmad Al Ghamdi, who had on Wednesday decided to step down in protest against sidelining of the body by referring the bill for amendments to a committee or ulema.

“All the members except Allama Aqeel Turabi, who is not well and is in Karachi, deliberated on the resignation and appreciated the stance taken by Dr Ghamdi,” Dr Masood said.

When asked whether other members of the council were considering quitting, Dr Masood said: “Unless we meet the president, it is too early to arrive at a conclusion.” But, he said the moment President Musharraf arrived, Dr Ghamdi’s resignation would be forwarded to him.