LAHORE, Feb 20: Interior Minister Aftab Ahmed Khan Sherpao announced on Monday release of political leaders and workers arrested in Islamabad during protests against the publication of blasphemous cartoons in some European newspapers.

He was speaking to a gathering of the Supreme Court Bar Association here on Monday.

The minister said he would also discuss with Punjab Chief Minister Pervaiz Elahi to seek the release of those arrested during and after the Feb 14 strike in Lahore and elsewhere in the province.

He said the government had been forced to proceed against them because they used dubious methods to promote a noble cause.

He said the government would not allow politics and violence in the name of religion nor compromise on the security in Balochistan.

He said that sentiments of the entire Ummah had been hurt by the publication of the blasphemous cartoons. Those sitting on the opposition and treasury benches were equally upset by the publication of the cartoons and could have devised a joint protest strategy instead of politicising the issue.

The violent protests, he added, had resulted in damage to public and private property.

Referring to the Islamabad episode, he said that MMA leader Qazi Hussain Ahmed had announced in the National Assembly three days ago that the protest would be held even if the government imposed restrictions on it.

He contacted the MMA leadership to ensure that the protest remained peaceful.