ISLAMABAD: The Milli Yekjehti Council (MYC) has distanced itself from sectarianism and said that “senior clerics of the Muslim world have declared Sunnis and Shias as Muslims”.

A joint statement issued here on Monday by MYC chief Sahibzada Dr Abul Khair Zubair and secretary general Liaquat Baloch said that not recognising any authenticated sect of Islam was not permissible.

They criticised the media portrayal of ‘a certain group’ and said it was contrary to the belief of clerics, including muftis, in the country.

“The MYC, comprising senior clerics and parties belonging to all sects, is striving to eradicate extremism from the country by promoting peaceful coherence and countering sectarianism,” they said.

They said a 22-point joint declaration for ending sectarianism had been initiated by the MYC and signed by senior clerics belonging to all sects.

“Shia and Sunni ulema have already expressed the resolve not to fall into Takfeeri ideas,” they said.

The leaders also released copies of the ‘Declaration of Makkah-2006 ’ and ‘Declaration of Aman-2005’ signed by Shia and Sunni ulema in which they decried Takfeeri thoughts.

Meanwhile, a demonstration was held outside a media house by workers of the Majlis Wahdatul Muslimeen against alleged airing of a TV programme which carried “objectionable content”.

On the other hand, the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority has issued a notice to Geo News TV channel. “The programme appears to be violating Pemra laws on sectarian religious hatred. The authority has taken cognisance of the said programme,” a Pemra spokesman said.

He told Dawn that the notice had been sent to the media group and hearing on it would be held by the ‘council of complaints’.

Published in Dawn, February 24th, 2015

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