Islamabad: The National Ulema and Mashaikh Council has called for the promotion of Islamic teachings to foster unity within the Ummah, strengthen national cohesion, and establish peace by eliminating extremism and hatred.

According to Radio Pakistan, this call was made in a joint communiqu© issued following the Council’s second meeting, held in Islamabad under the chairmanship of Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Sardar Muhammad Yousaf. The communiqu© emphasized that religious scholars, preachers, and zakireen should refrain from addressing controversial issues in their sermons. It further urged that provocative or hateful remarks against any sect, school of jurisprudence, or religious figure must be strictly avoided. Sermons delivered by Ulema will incorporate themes such as personal development, collective welfare, social responsibility, moral education, health, hygiene, environmental protection, the rights of women and children, and service to humanity.

It was agreed that the public should be educated on the fact that decisions and judicial proceedings in sensitive religious matters fall exclusively under the jurisdiction of authorized institutions. No individual or group has the right to act independently in such cases. The communiqu© also stated that fatwas and Sharia rulings may only be issued by recognized and authorized religious institutions or Darul Iftaa.

It was decided that Zakat and Salat Weeks will be observed to promote the Zakat system and encourage regular observance of prayer among Muslims. The meeting praised the armed forces of Pakistan for their role in defending the nation and delivering a strong response to aggression during the Marka-e-Haq.

The Council also welcomed the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. Speaking on the occasion, the Minister for Religious Affairs acknowledged the vital role of Ulema and Mashaikh in promoting peace and religious harmony within society.