Mourning for Imam Hussain is Human Rights not any Religious or Political issues
Staff Report
ISLAMABAD :Chairman Majlis Wahdat-e-Muslimeen Pakistan, Senator Allama Raja Nasir Abbas has strongly condemned the Punjab government’s restrictions on Muharram gatherings and processions, calling such actions discriminatory and unconstitutional.
Addressing a press conference alongside senior party leaders, here Monday at the National Press Club he said, “Azadari of Imam Hussain has been observed for centuries. It is a religious practice and a constitutional right for all schools of thought in Pakistan. Yet, every year, Muharram is met with unnecessary hurdles and tension.”
He denounced Punjab police for violating the sanctity of private homes by storming women’s religious gatherings and warned that “we will not accept any restrictions on traditional mourning practices, including the symbolic walking processions (Mashiyan).”
He further said, “Authorities are treating peaceful mourners as criminals.”
Besides the performance of authorities can be judges by the fact that bans on delivering speeches have been imposed even on deceased clerics.
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“As populations grow, the need for mosques and imambargahs also grows. Muharram comes every year — this is not sudden or unexpected — so why the panic and repression?” MWM chief added.
He condemned the FIRs being filed against organisers and participants of majalis, as well as bans on entry of clerics in different districts and restrictions on the use of sound systems.
Even traditional events are being criminalised, he added and gave the example of Dina, where an FIR was registered against the caretaker of a 40-year-old majlis.
“Police are rude, lack ethics, and do not know how to engage with citizens.” Senator Abbas added.
He labeled bans on azadari processions and imambargah inspections as hostile acts against religious freedom.
“No one has the right to interfere with our religious rites. These are not just gatherings, these are part of faith for Shias as well Sunnis of Pakistan.
He emphasised, “We created Pakistan to freely practice our religion, yet today in Punjab, Sindh, and KP, mourners are being harassed. We strongly protest the attitude of the Punjab police toward azadars. Depriving us of our constitutional and human rights will not be tolerated.”
He urged the government to focus on real issues like poverty and economic deprivation instead of targeting religious practices.
“The government must act sensibly. The federal and provincial administrations must ensure facilitation during these sacred days.”
Allama Raja Nasir also appealed to the Federal Interior Minister to take serious notice of the Punjab government’s actions and ensure that azadari continues without obstruction.