ISLAMABAD, July 25: The Chief Election Commissioner Justice Irshad Hasan Khan on Thursday stated that the holders of Sanad Shahadatul Almiya Fil Uloom-ul-Arabia Wal Islami granted by Wafaq/Tanzeemul Madaris, would be eligible to contest the forthcoming general elections.

According to an EC announcement, the Sanad, approved also by individual Deeni Madaris, which has been recognized as equivalent to MA Arabic/Islamic Studies for teaching purposes by the University Grants Commission, shall be eligible to contest the upcoming polls subject to fulfilment of other qualification prescribed under the law.

The EC clarification comes in response to the demand made by the Muttahida Majlis Amal that it should be clarified whether holding the degree of deeni madaris made one eligible to contest the elections or not.