The Council of Islamic Ideology (CII) in Islamabad has introduced a comprehensive “code of conduct” aimed at strengthening Pakistan’s identity and maintaining peace and tranquillity during the month of Muharram ul Haram. The code emphasizes upholding the Constitution, respecting fundamental rights, and remaining loyal to the state. Citizens are expected to acknowledge and abide by the authority of the state and demonstrate unwavering allegiance to its institutions.
The key aspects of the code revolve around upholding the dignity and respect of fundamental rights, including principles of equality, freedom of expression, belief, worship, and assembly. While Pakistan’s Constitution and laws will preserve the Islamic foundation, the code strictly prohibits any use of force in the name of Islam, armed actions against the state, violence, and incitement.
Individuals are not allowed to declare anyone, including government officials, military personnel, or security agencies, as infidels. The code calls for support to the state and its institutions, especially law enforcement, and security, to eradicate violence from society.
The code also discourages affiliating with movements driven by linguistic, regional, religious, or sectarian biases, and strict action will be taken against such groups to preserve unity and harmony.
In the educational realm, institutions must refrain from promoting militancy, extremism, and hatred, with severe consequences for those involved. While all Islamic schools of thought can propagate their beliefs, inciting hatred or making baseless accusations against individuals, institutions, or groups is strictly prohibited.
The code emphasizes the sanctity of religious figures and forbids indecent words about the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be Upon Him) and other religious figures. Decisions regarding blasphemy cases will be under the purview of the courts.
The code ensures that no individual can declare another Muslim as a non-believer and only qualified religious scholars can discuss Islamic principles based on religious doctrines. Decisions on apostasy will be determined by the courts by the Constitution.
The code firmly opposes terrorism, forbidding support or engagement in any form of terrorism or terrorist activities.
Healthy discussions on Islamic jurisprudence and theoretical issues are encouraged in educational institutions, promoting research and investigation.
The code highlights the responsibility of Muslim citizens and government officials to fulfill their duties according to Islamic teachings and the Constitution.
Islam’s teachings regarding the rights of elderly citizens, women, children, transgender individuals, and marginalized groups will be disseminated and protected.
Non-Muslim citizens have the right to practice their religion and rituals according to their beliefs, promoting religious freedom and inclusivity.
Women’s rights are protected, and acts such as honor killing, forced marriage, coercion, or voter disenfranchisement are strictly forbidden.
Hate-filled speeches in mosques, pulpits, or media platforms related to sectarian issues are discouraged, and freedom of expression should be exercised responsibly to prevent the spread of sectarian hatred.
By adhering to this code of conduct, Pakistan aims to promote unity, tolerance, and harmony, upholding ethical values in the light of Paigham-e-Pakistan.
The CII calls upon all citizens to embrace the code of conduct and work together to strengthen the values and principles that underpin the country’s spirit of unity and harmony. Additionally, the CII has condemned the desecration incident of the Holy Quran in Sweden and emphasized the need for international legislation to discourage such incidents from causing religious disharmony.
