ISLAMABAD: Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has stated that the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa has been targeted for a long time, and the state will not allow anyone to issue murder fatwas.
During a press conference with Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal in Islamabad, Khawaja Asif said that a group had launched a very outrageous and baseless propaganda campaign. “It won’t be enough, no matter how much the propaganda is criticized,” he remarked.
He noted that while the CJP has been frequently discussed, it has been repeatedly clarified that he had nothing to do with any controversial decision or statement. Despite explanations from the Supreme Court, the propaganda based on lies continues. “Everyone knows why the Chief Justice is being targeted,” he claimed.
Khawaja Asif mentioned that extremist posts are being shared on social media, with attempts to incite bloodshed in the country in the name of religion. “Westerners and those seeking political interests are adding fuel to this fire. The state will take action on these issues, and it will not allow anyone to issue fatwas calling for murder,” he declared.
The minister further stated that the Chief Justice has been targeted for a long time, adding that this is a new chapter and a new mischief against one who upholds the tradition of rights and truth. “The state will respond with full force to illegal actions and death threats. The state will not accept dictation in the name of religion, politics, and personal interests. The rule of law and justice should prevail in the country,” he added.
He said Justice Isa has been targeted since the Faizabad sit-in. “After the Faizabad sit-in decision, a reference was filed against Justice Isa. He gave a constitutional and legal decision regarding the sit-in. The state will take full action over the fatwa against the Chief Justice,” he insisted.
On this occasion, Ahsan Iqbal stated that the foundation of the faith of Muslims is the end of Prophethood, adding that no group is allowed to issue murder fatwas. “A revolt against the Constitution was announced by releasing a video against the Chief Justice. The judiciary is the main pillar of the state,” he remarked.
Ahsan Iqbal further said that no one has the authority to judge the faith of others, adding that the incidents that happened to the minorities in Pakistan have caused shame worldwide.
“No one has the right to issue a fatwa against someone who recites the kalma. Religion is being used for politics to create chaos. Only the court can decide punishment and reward in a state. Scholars should rid the nation of those who sow the seeds of chaos and hatred,” he added.
Read more: China Pledges Support for Pakistan in IMF Approval Process: Aurangzeb
