The Real Criterion of Politics Is Character; Respect for Law Is Indispensable for Establishing Peace in Society: Maulana Muhammad Khan Sherani
Instead of Issuing Fatwas and Spreading Unrest, Scholars Should Highlight the Awareness of Argument, Tolerance and Responsibility
QUETTA (Daily Qudrat Quetta): Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam central leader Maulana Muhammad Khan Sherani has said that there is a great difference between basic life and collective life; the real criterion of politics is character. If peace is to be established in society, there is a need to recognise the ruler’s effectiveness and to respect the law. It is the responsibility of scholars and muftis to guide the people correctly and, instead of issuing fatwas without argument and creating unrest in society, to awaken in people a sense of awareness, tolerance and responsibility.
He expressed these views while addressing the “Shaoor Aagahi, Yaad-e-Syed Shamsuddin Shaheed Seminar” held at the Quetta Press Club. JUI provincial president Maulana Abdul Malik, Jamiat Talaba Islam central president Hafiz Nawaz, provincial president Syed Muhammad Shah, Haji Abdul Razzaq, Aminullah, Abdul Waris and other speakers also addressed the seminar. The speakers expressed their views on promoting awareness and enlightenment in society, intellectual guidance and the importance of collective responsibilities.
In his address, Maulana Muhammad Khan Sherani said that the requirements of individual and collective life are different. When a person becomes part of collective life, social responsibilities also fall upon him. For the establishment of a peaceful and organised society, it is necessary that individuals respect the rights of others along with their own and ensure adherence to law and discipline in collective matters.
He said that politics is not merely the name of acquiring power or slogans; rather, in politics, character, principles, responsibility and guidance of the people are of fundamental importance. Political and religious leaders should set a positive example through their actions and teach people tolerance, dialogue and observance of the law despite differences.
Discussing the role of scholars and muftis, Maulana Muhammad Khan Sherani said that a great responsibility rests on religious leaders to guide the people correctly. Any opinion or fatwa in religious matters must be based on authentic knowledge, argument and relevant Sharia principles. Instead of guiding people merely on the basis of emotions, it is necessary to explain facts to them and show them the right path.
He said that for peace and stability in society, it is necessary that religious teachings be presented with responsibility. Scholars should provide guidance to people in matters that promote social harmony, mutual respect and collective responsibilities. The purpose of religious guidance should be to create understanding and awareness among people and to steer them toward a positive course of action.
Speaking on the subject of jihad, Maulana Muhammad Khan Sherani said that some scholars encourage jihad; however, in such matters it is necessary to clarify the arguments and relevant Sharia principles. Instead of presenting religious matters merely in an emotional manner, their scholarly basis and correct meaning should be understood and explained so that people do not fall victim to any ambiguity or misunderstanding.
He further said that promoting awareness and enlightenment in society is the need of the hour. It is necessary to inform people about their rights, duties, social responsibilities and the requirements of collective life. When individuals demonstrate responsibility, respect the law and care for the rights of others, the possibilities of peace and stability in society increase.
Addressing the seminar, other speakers said that holding an event under the title of awareness and enlightenment in memory of Syed Shamsuddin Shaheed is a means of advancing intellectual and social debate. They stressed the need to promote positive thinking, scholarly dialogue, education and public awareness in society.
The speakers said that the intellectual training of youth, the responsible guidance of scholars and the positive role of political and social leadership are important in building a better society. Through such seminars, discussion on the problems facing society and positive proposals for their solution can be brought forward.
