Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Yahya Afridi has stressed the vital role of rule of law, interfaith harmony, and justice in building a stable and inclusive society, during a symposium titled 'Interfaith Harmony and Fundamental Rights: A Constitutional Need'.
The event, held at the Supreme Court in Islamabad, brought together distinguished guests, including Muslim World League Secretary General Dr Muhammad bin Abdul Karim Al-Issa, Federal Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar, judges of the Supreme Court and high courts, and senior legal experts.
“We have gathered today on the theme of mutual respect, fundamental rights, and justice for all,” the chief justice said, expressing gratitude to all participants for attending the important event.
Fundamental rights and rule of law key to social stability
In his address, CJP Afridi emphasized that the rule of law is essential for everyone, and justice and respect must be upheld for all citizens regardless of faith or background.
He noted that interfaith harmony and the protection of fundamental rights are of “key importance in the stability of society.”
“The message of Islam is one of tolerance and patience. We all have to work together for the betterment of society,” he remarked, praying that the symposium would lead Pakistan closer to a society grounded in equality and justice.
The chief justice said the Constitution of Pakistan provides a comprehensive framework to protect fundamental rights, and the judiciary must ensure that citizens can fully benefit from these constitutional guarantees.
Islamic principles of justice, equality
Referring to the spirit of Islam, Chief Justice Yahya Afridi said that Islam’s message centers on justice, tolerance, and equality, which form the moral foundation of a peaceful and progressive society.
He also acknowledged the presence of his “two teachers,” Justice (retd) Tassaduq Hussain Jillani and Dr. Muhammad bin Abdul Karim Al-Issa, appreciating their lifelong contributions to promoting interfaith understanding and justice.
“Dr. Al-Issa has served as the head of the judiciary of Saudi Arabia and continues to play a vital role in promoting global peace through interfaith dialogue,” the CJP added.
Al-Issa praises Pakistan’s efforts for harmony
Speaking at the symposium, Dr. Muhammad bin Abdul Karim Al-Issa, secretary general of the Muslim World League, expressed gratitude for the invitation and praised Pakistan’s commitment to interfaith harmony and the protection of rights.
“Islam guarantees fundamental rights for all and teaches equality, tolerance, and justice,” Dr. Al-Issa said. “The provision of timely and affordable justice leads to stability in society.”
He emphasized that promoting justice and mutual respect across religious and ethnic lines is central to Islamic teachings.
Law minister reaffirms constitutional protections
Addressing the gathering, Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar reaffirmed that Article 25 of the Constitution guarantees equality for all citizens, adding that the Constitution of Pakistan ensures the protection of fundamental human rights.
“Equality and justice are of fundamental importance in every society,” the minister said. “It must be ensured that no one is discriminated against on the basis of faith or race.”
He highlighted ongoing government efforts, including legislation to protect minorities and the implementation of the National Action Plan to counter extremism and safeguard civil liberties. "Courts have the legal authority to stop forced marriages," he stated, adding that minorities in Pakistan had all fundamental rights under the Constitution.
The law minister added that Pakistan’s progress in upholding constitutional rights has been recognized globally, emphasizing that all segments of society must work together to build a strong and inclusive nation.
Commitment to justice and tolerance reaffirmed
The symposium concluded with a shared commitment from all participants to uphold justice, mutual respect, and the rule of law as guiding principles of Pakistan’s governance and social order.
Chief Justice Yahya Afridi expressed hope that such forums would continue to strengthen Pakistan’s constitutional values and help nurture a society where justice is accessible, equality is guaranteed, and tolerance prevails.
