News Desk
Lahore, 12 September 2024:
At a press conference held today at the Lahore Press Club, Mr. Faisal Ilyas, Executive Director of Peace Hope Pakistan, emphasized the urgent need for an inclusive society to foster peaceful coexistence in Pakistan. The event, attended by a diverse range of participants, sought to address the growing concerns surrounding religious extremism, violence, and social division within the country.
Mr. Ilyas, who is also a member of the National Lobbying Delegation for Minority Rights and a research scholar on peace and counterterrorism, presented his research paper titled “Inclusive Society for Peaceful Coexistence in Pakistan.” He highlighted the importance of unity, mutual respect, and adherence to the Pakistani constitution to ensure peace and stability. He called on all Pakistanis to play a constructive role in promoting brotherhood, tolerance, and acceptance of diversity as crucial steps toward building a peaceful state.
During his address, Mr. Ilyas condemned the rising levels of violence and religious extremism, which have been manifested through incidents based on caste, creed, sect, language, ethnic identities, and religion. He urged the government and law enforcement agencies to take decisive action against individuals and groups fostering division and terrorism. Mr. Ilyas also referenced the National Action Plan and Paigham-e-Pakistan, calling for their strict implementation in combating extremism.
The press conference saw participation from various religious, political, and civil society leaders, including representatives from the Hindu, Christian, and Sikh communities. Among the prominent attendees were Deputy Speaker of the Sindh Assembly Mr. Naveed Anthony, Punjab Provincial Minister for Human Rights Mr. Ramaish Singh Arora, and MPA Ejaz Augustine.
In light of recent incidents, such as the violent attack on churches in Jaranwala and the mob killings in Sargodha and Swat, Mr. Ilyas condemned the perpetrators, labeling their actions as anti-state and disruptive to peace. He stressed the importance of rejecting violence and fostering an inclusive society that guarantees the rights and safety of all citizens, regardless of their religious or ethnic backgrounds.
The conference culminated in the signing of a Charter of Demands, with all attendees pledging their commitment to promoting peace, tolerance, and social harmony across Pakistan. The participants agreed to advocate for these principles within their respective communities, vowing to work together for a peaceful and inclusive Pakistan.
Mr. Ilyas expressed his gratitude to the attendees for their participation and dedication to the cause of peace. He reiterated his call for all Pakistanis to unite in the effort to build a society that values coexistence and mutual respect.
“We must prioritize peace and harmony for the future of our country,” Mr. Ilyas stated. “The time has come for each of us to play our part in ensuring that Pakistan becomes a nation where all citizens, regardless of their faith or identity, can live in safety and dignity.”
The event was hailed as a significant step towards promoting inclusive dialogue and action aimed at countering the divisive forces threatening Pakistan’s stability, said the press release.