ISLAMABAD: For social peace and harmony and for giving equal rights to the citizens, religion should be separated from politics so that no one could exploit it for their vested interests.

This was the crux of a roundtable titled ‘Governance, community and religion’ jointly organised by the Centre for Research and Security Studies and Heinrich Boll Stiftung here on Friday.

Renowned anthropologist and author Dr Shahbana Mir, who teaches at the Millikin University, USA, and Indonesian journalist Enday Bayuni were the guest speakers.

A selected group of intellectuals, scholars, right activists, academicians and students participated in the dialogue.

The discussion was moderated by senior journalist and security analyst Imtiaz Gul.

The speakers sensitised and reflected upon the fact that the state should not assume the role of a pastor or some religious authority to adjudge sin or goodness.

Instead it should only base itself on the constitution to ensure social harmony and adjudicate the violation of the law of the land.

Dr Shahbana spoke about the American model of democracy in which she said everyone was free to practice the religion of their choice.

“There is no role of churches in US politics,” she said and added that across the globe politics should be separated from religion so that no one could exploit religion for gaining vested interests.

However, right activist Tahira Abdullah while differing with Dr Shahbana’s views added: “I wish there should be no role of religion in politics anywhere. But I’m sorry, still churches of US have their role in politics.”

Imtiaz Gul said Article 25 of the constitution guaranteed equal rights to every citizen of the country.

“There should be no discrimination on the basis of religion and race. We want equal rights for all the citizens,” he said.

Endy Bayuni said: “Economic, administrative and political factors help sustain liberal, democratic model in his country.”

He said things had improved in his country as no serious terrorism related incident could take place there.

“Though we are neither Islamic nor secular country, no political party is allowed to run its election campaign in the name of Islam and for enforcing Sharia.”

He said recently a Christian was appointed as the governor of Jakarta.

Former Pakistani diplomat Sanaullah also spoke on the occasion.

Published in Dawn, June 7th, 2014