ISLAM is a religion of peace and has asked its followers not to sabotage the religious places of minorities. Moreover, the Constitution states: “Every religious denomination and every sect thereof shall have the right to establish, maintain and manage its religious institutions.” Regrettably, extremists follow neither the teachings nor the laws, and this will harm the country.

To end this menace and protect the rights of the minorities, religious leaders should play their due role in accordance with the teachings of Islam. Besides, higher courts should ensure the implementation of the laws in letter and in spirit. Strict punishment, along with hefty fine, ought to be imposed on those who are found spreading religious extremism.

Mazhar Yousuf Ansari
Hyderabad

Published in Dawn, February 2nd, 2021