Gilgit-Baltistan Religious Leaders Agree on Respect for Sanctities, Promote Interfaith Harmony
Independent Report
Gilgit: Religious scholars and community leaders from different schools of thought have reached a consensus on promoting interfaith harmony and ensuring respect for the sanctities of all communities during a meeting held at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat in Gilgit-Baltistan.
The meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Gilgit-Baltistan Amjad Hussain Azar, was attended by representatives of Ahle Sunnat Wal Jamaat, Anjuman-e-Imamia, Ismaili Regional Council Gilgit, and the Noor Bakhshi school of thought.
Participants unanimously agreed that disrespecting the sanctities of any sect or religious group is unacceptable and against Islamic teachings. They stressed the need for collective efforts to strengthen peace, tolerance, and brotherhood in society.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Amjad Hussain Azar said the government was committed to resolving public issues through justice, fairness, and good governance. He emphasized that all communities would be taken along and positive recommendations from religious scholars and elders would be encouraged.
The Chief Minister said mutual respect among different schools of thought was essential for lasting peace and announced that a consultative platform, similar to a scholars’ council, would be established to maintain regular engagement with religious leaders and benefit from their guidance.
He further directed strict action against drug dealers to protect the younger generation and instructed the Gilgit-Baltistan police chief to launch an indiscriminate crackdown against narcotics networks.
The Chief Minister also highlighted government plans to ensure merit-based recruitment through a transparent digital system, equitable development across all districts, and reforms aimed at improving opportunities for youth and women.
Religious scholars and community representatives appreciated the initiative for bringing different schools of thought together and expressed their support for efforts aimed at strengthening peace, unity, and development in Gilgit-Baltistan.
