This article explores the significance of Paigham-e-Pakistan, a historic fatwa endorsed by over 1,800 scholars, uniting Pakistan against terrorism, extremism, and sectarianism.
Introduction: Understanding Paigham-e-Pakistan
The esteemed scholars have issued a unanimous decree against terrorism under the name “Message of Pakistan (Paigham-e-Pakistan)” in the form of a book, which bears the signatures of more than 1800 scholars. This book has been published by the Institute of Islamic Research. A conference was held in Islamabad under the leadership of the President of Pakistan, attended by scholars and government representatives.
This comprehensive document unequivocally condemns terrorism, suicide attacks, and armed rebellion against the state as un-Islamic, aiming to foster national unity and counter extremist ideologies. The significance of this decree lies in the fact that it has been unanimously approved by a large number of scholars and muftis of all sects, and then endorsed by the state as a national statement.
Background: The Emergence of Paigham-e-Pakistan
Over the years, Pakistan has grappled with the menace of terrorism and extremism, leading to significant loss of life and societal unrest. The tragic Army Public School attack in Peshawar in 2014 served as a catalyst, uniting the nation against terrorism. In response, the government formulated the National Action Plan, encompassing various measures to combat terrorism. Amid these efforts, the need for a unified religious stance against extremism became evident, culminating in the creation of Paigham-e-Pakistan.
Following this incident, the state devised a National Action Plan to deal with terrorists and their facilitators, various operations were carried out to break the backbone of terrorists, scrutiny of bank accounts was intensified, the registration system of weapons and identity cards was tightened, strict monitoring of media and social media was conducted, and the counter-terrorism agency, NACTA, was strengthened. Alongside all these practical measures, a theoretical struggle against terrorists was also waged. In this regard, the services of the esteemed scholars are highly commendable. The scholars issued decrees and statements against terrorism, provided religious support to counter the terrorists using verses, hadiths, and phrases, and clarified the correct interpretation and context of these texts to the public.
Key Provisions of Paigham-e-Pakistan
1. Condemnation of Terrorism and Suicide Attacks
The fatwa categorically declares all forms of terrorism, suicide attacks, and armed rebellion against the state as forbidden (haram) in Islam. It emphasizes that such acts are not only crimes under the law but also grave sins in Islamic teachings.
2. Exclusive Right of the State to Declare Jihad
Paigham-e-Pakistan asserts that only the state holds the authority to declare jihad. Any individual or group undertaking armed struggle without state authorisation is deemed rebellious and acting against Islamic principles.
3. Rejection of Sectarianism and Extremism
The document denounces sectarian hatred and the imposition of one’s ideology on others by force. It calls for mutual respect among different sects and promotes peaceful coexistence.
4. Protection of Religious Minorities
Paigham-e-Pakistan upholds the rights of non-Muslim minorities, affirming their freedom to practice their religion as guaranteed by the Constitution of Pakistan. It emphasizes that any form of discrimination or violence against minorities is un-Islamic.
Implementation and Impact
The issuance of Paigham-e-Pakistan has been a significant step in Pakistan’s fight against extremism. It has provided a unified religious narrative that supports the state’s efforts to combat terrorism. The fatwa has been endorsed by international Islamic authorities, including Imam-e-Kaaba and Al-Azhar University, further solidifying its credibility.
Future Directions: Building on Paigham-e-Pakistan
1. Educational Reforms
Integrating the principles of Paigham-e-Pakistan into educational curricula can help inculcate values of peace, tolerance, and unity among the youth.
2. Media Engagement
Media platforms should promote the messages of Paigham-e-Pakistan, countering extremist narratives and highlighting stories of interfaith harmony and national unity.
3. Community Outreach
Religious leaders and scholars can play a pivotal role in community engagement, spreading the teachings of Paigham-e-Pakistan at the grassroots level to foster understanding and cohesion.
Undoubtedly, every effort begins in specific situations and contexts, but it must be built on strong foundations to avoid recurring crises. This is the essence of true scholarship. Just as our struggle against terrorism must aim for permanent solutions, we must seek lasting peace and brighter prospects for future generations.
Many scholars and intellectuals have offered insights on this issue. I would like to share a few thoughts of my own.
End of Sectarianism
Eliminating terrorism requires eliminating sectarianism. Sectarianism—whether based on religion, language, ethnicity, or region—fuels division and extremism. We must become a unified nation with shared goals and values. While sects may always exist, we can foster peace through tolerance, mutual respect, and acceptance.
Some key areas within sectarianism need urgent attention:
-
Harmful Fatwas and Literature:
Many sectarian texts contain harsh fatwas and offensive language against others. These may be impractical in daily life, but they breed hostility and justify extremism. Such fatwas empower radical clerics while undermining peace-promoting scholars. It is time to end this practice and cut support to those who use theoretical arguments to justify hate.
A panel of moderate scholars from all sects should identify and discard such fatwas. If united, these scholars can extinguish the sparks that ignite violence. -
Contentious Writings and Sectarian Figures:
Some of Maulana Maududi’s writings were seen as disrespectful towards certain revered figures. Qazi Hussain Ahmed courageously removed those passages. Despite opposition, this step helped present Maududi as a visionary thinker and stopped critics from misrepresenting him.
Other sects should follow this example by reevaluating divisive writings by their leaders. Though difficult and controversial, it is essential for academic progress and inter-sect harmony.
The current culture of debate has replaced genuine dialogue. Arguments now foster rivalry, not understanding, leading to intellectual stagnation. -
Entrenched Misunderstandings:
Long-standing sectarian differences have grown into deep-rooted enmities. Misinterpretations often result from assumptions rather than careful engagement. Over time, these misconceptions become inherited prejudices.
Misunderstandings span religious, political, and social issues. Often, sects claim that their words were twisted or misunderstood. This has occurred since early Islamic history. To break this cycle, we need open, respectful dialogue.
Such conversations must exclude opportunistic debaters and include sincere scholars who value peace over point-scoring. -
Limiting Hate Speech and Encouraging Constructive Dialogue:
Speeches, writings, and events that incite hatred should be legally restricted. Training workshops should uplift the moral and intellectual caliber of scholars and debaters.
Scholars must be guided to address contemporary Islamic challenges and global issues. Teamwork and institutional support are essential to train religious leaders who can engage wisely and constructively with modern realities.
End of Private Jihadist Groups
Respected scholars have unanimously stated that jihad is the exclusive domain of the state. No group or individual can declare or wage jihad independently. This position must be enforced, and all fatwas that support terrorism must be revoked.
Anyone involved in organising or promoting private jihad must be held accountable under national law. While individuals who reform and contribute positively should be welcomed into society, those who incite violence or work for banned organisations must face legal consequences.
Scholars also have a duty to dismantle the ideological support for such groups by clarifying and correcting their misuse of religious texts.
Monitoring Foreign Interference
Foreign interference is a major factor behind terrorism. Countries like Iran and Saudi Arabia have supported sectarian groups in Pakistan for their political aims, causing serious internal unrest. This external funding and ideological influence must be curbed. Our scholars agree: joining foreign militant campaigns in the name of Islam violates both Islamic teachings and the Pakistani constitution. Citizens must honor the state’s commitments and avoid participating in conflicts that compromise national integrity.
State Policies
State policies must be transparent and fully aligned with national and international laws. While we should voice political and diplomatic support for oppressed Muslims globally—whether in Palestine, Kashmir, or elsewhere—we must never provide military support to non-state actors.
Organisations or individuals in Pakistan involved in foreign armed struggles must be dealt with firmly. Extremist behaviour should be discouraged, not endorsed.
Social and Societal Reforms
True peace requires justice in every sphere: religious, economic, legal, and social. Persistent neglect of people’s rights breeds frustration, pushing individuals toward extremism.
Millions in Pakistan live in despair, feeling abandoned by the system. These feelings can be explosive. Unless addressed, they may trigger long-term instability.
We must not only listen to the grievances of marginalised groups—including religious minorities and smaller provinces—but also ensure that they receive their rightful place in the national fabric.
Conclusion
Paigham-e-Pakistan stands as a testament to Pakistan’s commitment to eradicating terrorism and promoting a peaceful, inclusive society. By uniting religious scholars across various sects, it provides a powerful counter-narrative to extremism, reinforcing the nation’s resolve to uphold the true teachings of Islam and ensure harmony among its diverse populace.
India-Pakistan Conflict: What Should You Do?
Role of Houthis in Palestine Conflict: Their Impact and Strategic Moves
Journalist