ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Ulema Council and Dar-ul-Ifta Pakistan on Wednesday jointly issued a Fatwa (religious decree) strictly prohibiting political activism, sloganeering, and hoisting of flags or banners, in any form at the holy sites of Makkah and Madinah.
The Fatwa was announced by President Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi, PUC Chairman, and Dar-ul-Ifta Pakistan, along with leading religious leaders during a media conference.
Emphasizing the sanctity of holy sites, Ashrafi urged the intending Hajj pilgrims to utilize their time there to worship and pray to the Almighty Allah instead of indulging in petty political activities.
Expressing concerns over attempts by some people to display flags and banners at the holy sites, Ashrafi said that such actions were unacceptable and could lead to disturbance of peace in the holy sites.
He reiterated that adhering to the laws and directives of the Saudi Arabian government was imperative for all pilgrims and visitors.
Ashrafi underlined efforts by PUC, the Hajj Organizers Association of Pakistan, and the International Tazeem-e-Harmain-e-Sharifain Council to arrange educational sessions for pilgrims across the country. They were also trying to involve representatives from the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in the training sessions, he added.
Cooperation Between Pakistan and Islamic Countries
To a question, Ashrafi highlighted the historical cooperation between Pakistan and Islamic nations. He expressed optimism that with the establishment of the Special Investment Facilitation Council, the cooperation would be strengthened further, anticipating enhanced collaboration with Arab states under the upcoming elected government.
