Lahore – Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah of the Supreme Court has called for greater coexistence and tolerance in society, highlighting Pakistan’s low ranking in religious freedom. Speaking at the Justice A.R. Cornelius Conference, hosted by a minority rights organization, Justice Shah emphasized the importance of elevating judges from minority communities to higher courts, though he noted the term ‘minority’ merely reflects their numerical representation.
Justice Shah’s remarks come in the wake of Pakistan’s poor standing in the Freedom House Report by the European Union for 2023, particularly in the religious freedom segment. He underscored the collective responsibility of the nation to improve this situation, noting that the Constitution guarantees minority rights and the Holy Prophet (PBUH) not only protected minority rights but also taught Muslims to do the same.
In his address, Justice Shah stated, “All non-Muslim communities in Pakistan are dear to us, and we all love them.” He highlighted the symbolic representation of minorities in Pakistan’s national flag, urging for their recognition and protection.
Referencing the historical precedent set by the Riasat-i-Madina, Justice Shah pointed out that protection of religious minorities has always been a core tenet of Islam. He noted that the Holy Prophet (PBUH) ensured the protection of non-Muslim worship places and fostered a peaceful coexistence among diverse religious communities.
Justice Shah also commended Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa’s recent visit to Jaranwala, where he apologized on behalf of the nation to victims of mob violence. This act, he said, exemplifies the judiciary’s commitment to protecting minority rights.
Justice Ali Baqar Najafi of the Lahore High Court, also speaking at the conference, praised the late Justice A.R. Cornelius for his extensive work on human rights and highlighted former Chief Justice Tassaduq Hussain Jillani’s contributions to minority protection. Justice Najafi reaffirmed the judiciary’s role in ensuring justice beyond religious and ethnic lines and stressed the state’s responsibility in safeguarding minority worship places.
Federal Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar reiterated that Islam guarantees the rights and protection of minorities. He mentioned ongoing government efforts to engage with minority representatives and legislate based on their input. Tarar announced the formation of a commission dedicated to minority issues and expressed the government’s desire to see greater minority representation in the higher judiciary. Additionally, he hinted at forthcoming legislation to prevent child marriages post-budget approval.
The conference highlighted the judiciary and government’s shared commitment to minority rights and the necessity of fostering a more inclusive and tolerant society.