LAHORE: Islam is the protector of human rights and Muslims are responsible for the rights of minorities in Muslim-majority countries, said Hafiz Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi, chairman of Pakistan Ulema Council.

Addressing the Paigham-i-Rehmatul Al-Alameen Conference here on Sunday, he said the Constitution and law is the biggest protector of the rights of minorities in Pakistan.

After the arrival of the Holy Prophet (PBUH), the rights of women got protection as before him the Arabs usually buried their daughters alive. The education of girls is also important in the same way that education of boys is important, said Ashrafi.

He said Islam does not allow forced conversions.

He announced that Friday sermons on Oct 7 would be delivered on the topic of ‘Rights of women and minorities’ in the light of the Seerat-i-Mustafa (PBUH).

He said a solution to Pakistan’s problems lies in the implementation of Nizam-i-Mustafa as the major reason for the problems is the usury system. He called for immediate steps to eliminate usury from the country.

He said for the last 75 years, the country had been asking for loans and aids from the world and Muslim countries, now the whole nation should think together to get Pakistan out of it.

He said that Pakistan’s vast areas have been inundated by floods, but unfortunately the political leadership is entangled in pursuing politics of ego.

He asked if it is the sole responsibility of the prime minister and army chief to seek measures for the flood-affected people.

Talking to the media after the conference, Hafiz Ashrafi admitted his lack of knowledge regarding the transgender law.

He said the people and religious community did not receive any information regarding the law enacted in 2018.

He said it’s the responsibility of the parliamentary parties to play their role and raise their voice against the legislation made contrary to the Islamic teachings and the Constitution.

He commended the amendment bill presented by the Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam regarding the transgender law and announced PUC support for it, hoping that the government would cooperate in this regard in view of the sentiments of the religious community.

He said that no doubt transgender persons are an oppressed section of society and they should be supported in every way. But, under the guise of transgenders, if someone wants homosexuality in the country or introduce the measures contrary to the Constitution, law and Islamic teachings, then it cannot be allowed.”

Published in Dawn, October 3rd, 2022