Scholars’ role vital in countering extremism, strengthening national unity: Mohsin Naqvi

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 16th Jun, 2026) Calling religious scholars indispensable partners in Pakistan’s fight against extremism and efforts to promote national cohesion, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Tuesday urged clerics from across the country to take a more active year-round role in educating the public about the Islamic teachings on peace, state authority and social harmony.

Addressing a gathering of religious scholars at the Ministry of Interior, Naqvi thanked participants, particularly those who had travelled from outside Islamabad, and praised their contribution to fostering inter-sect and interfaith understanding. He said the government viewed the religious community as a key stakeholder in maintaining peace and stability and was committed to strengthening engagement with scholars from all schools of thought.

The minister lauded the National Paigham-e-Pakistan Committee for bringing together representatives of all major religious seminaries and boards under a single platform. Describing the forum as an important step toward building national consensus, he suggested expanding its structure to the district level to ensure wider outreach and stronger coordination across the country.

Naqvi particularly appreciated the initiative under which a common message was delivered from more than 22,000 mosques nationwide. Such a coordinated effort, he said, conveyed a powerful signal of unity and demonstrated the collective commitment of Pakistan’s religious leadership to national interests.

Referring to the ongoing struggle against terrorism, the interior minister acknowledged the consistent support of religious scholars through statements, sermons and religious decrees condemning violence and extremism. He urged clerics to further explain, in the light of the Holy Quran and Hadith, how islam addresses rebellion, disorder and actions that weaken the state.

“People should understand what Islamic teachings say about those who challenge the authority of the state through violence or terrorism and what consequences such actions carry,” he said, adding that scholars were uniquely positioned to counter extremist narratives and guide the younger generation.

Naqvi emphasized that the government wanted religious leaders to remain engaged throughout the year rather than only during sensitive periods such as Muharram or Rabi-ul-Awwal. He proposed regular monthly interactions and assured participants that the Ministry of Interior’s doors would remain open for consultation and cooperation.

Reflecting on broader societal challenges, the minister observed that tensions often arise when individuals become preoccupied with the affairs of others instead of focusing on self-improvement and the well-being of their own communities.

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Drawing on his experiences from visits to several Muslim countries, he argued that greater social harmony could be achieved if people concentrated on their own responsibilities rather than criticizing other sects or faiths.

He also stressed that freedom of expression could not be used as a justification for insulting religions or sects, noting that every state places limits on speech when national stability and public order are at stake.

The interior minister also spoke at length about Pakistan’s diplomatic role in easing tensions between Iran and the United States. Using a sports analogy, he described Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif as the leader providing strategic direction and Field Marshal Asim Munir as the captain who carried forward the mission on the ground.

According to Naqvi, Pakistan’s efforts succeeded largely because both sides trusted Asim Munir’s sincerity and impartiality. He said the field marshal was respected for speaking candidly to all parties, regardless of the circumstances, and for prioritizing peace over political considerations.

Recalling a particularly tense phase of the diplomatic engagement, Naqvi said there were moments when the prospect of renewed conflict appeared imminent. He claimed that a heartfelt appeal by the field marshal, emphasizing the importance of saving lives and preventing further bloodshed, helped create an atmosphere conducive to continued dialogue.

The minister further remarked that Pakistan had witnessed several extraordinary moments during its recent confrontation with India, describing them as instances where events unfolded in ways that strengthened the country’s position despite difficult circumstances. He said such experiences reinforced faith in divine assistance and national resilience.

Addressing concerns raised by religious leaders regarding religious gatherings and processions, Naqvi clarified that the government had no objection to individuals travelling on foot for religious purposes. However, he stressed that organized processions should be coordinated with local authorities in advance to ensure security and smooth management.

Concluding his address, the interior minister called for closer cooperation between the government and religious scholars, saying that national unity, religious harmony and the fight against extremism required a collective effort. He expressed confidence that continued engagement with the country’s religious leadership would help strengthen social cohesion and reinforce Pakistan’s message of peace and moderation.