ISLAMABAD, Sept 11: Christian community hosted a reception to pay tribute to the court of law for upholding norms of justice, Chairman Pakistan Ulema Council, Maulana Tahir Ashrafi and Chairman Pakistan Interfaith League (PIL) Sajid Ishaq, for playing positive role in Rimsha Masih case.

Central Chairman National Supreme Council of Bishops and Heads of Churches in Pakistan (NSCBHCP) and Chairman United Council of Churches of Islamabad (UCCI), Bishop Ishaq Mazhar, while speaking on the occasion appreciated the stand taken by additional session judge, Mohammad Azam Khan while taking the decision to grant bail.

“Decision has made it clear that the law is equal for all citizens of Pakistan and no one can be discriminated on the basis of cast, colour or creed,” he said.

Maulana Tahir Ashrafi, while speaking on the occasion said that non-Muslim citizens of Pakistan are equal in the eyes of law. He said that the minorities in Pakistan need no support or protection from outside as the constitution of Pakistan and the laws of the land are enough to make them feel safe and comfortable in every way.

“There is no need to change the law. What we must ensure is that existing laws are implemented in letter and spirit. No one needs to leave country on the pretext of safety or security or threat to one’s life. We are capable of protecting and defending our citizens without any discrimination and international community need not poke their nose in our internal affairs,” he said.

Sajid Ishaq said that it was indeed heartening to see that Muslim scholars and religious leaders stood in defence of a wrongly accused, minor Christian girl. “This is the true message of Islam; compassion, love and harmony,” he said.