The past two days saw instances of mudslinging and in some cases hate speech against PTI Chairman Imran Khan over his visit to the shrine of Baba Farid Ganjshakar in Pakpattan.

We believe that freedom to practice one's religion is critical and key to the Pakistan project and association with a religion or a school of thought shouldn't be used as a weapon against political opponents.

Dawn's editorial team weighs in on the controversy around Imran's visit to the Baba Farid Ganjshakar shrine.

It must be said that religious issues are solely between man and his Maker, and should not be dragged into politics. While much may be fair in elections, politicians’ personal and family lives, along with their religious beliefs and practices, should not be the subject of public discussion. Mr Khan has a right to express his religious beliefs freely, and it is not acceptable for others to condemn him, or any other politician, on confessional matters.

Read the full editorial here.