Interfaith Leaders Condemn Hate Speech by Dr. Zakir Naik, Call for Tolerance and Coexistence

Lahore, Pakistan – October 16, 2024

In a joint press conference held at the Lahore Press Club, interfaith leaders from various religious communities came together to condemn the recent hate speech and derogatory remarks made by Dr. Zakir Naik against Christianity and other minority faiths in Pakistan.

The conference, organized by Fr. James Channan OP, was attended by prominent figures from the Christian, Muslim, Hindu, and Sikh communities, including Fr. Pascal Paulus OP (Vice Provincial of Ibn-e-Mariam Provice of Pakistan), Fr. Akhtar Naveed, Allama Muhammad Zuber Abid, Rev. Dr. Marcus Fida, Rev. Emmanuel Sardar Khokhar, Fr. John Joseph, Pandit Bhagat Lal Khokhar, Sardar Sikandar Singh, Rev. Amjad Niamat, Bishop Ibrahim Daniel, and Advocate Supreme Court Iqbal Chaudhry.

Also Read: A Shining Example: Fr. James Channan’s 50 Years of Dedication

The leaders expressed their deep concern and disappointment over the Dr. Zakir’s remarks, which they deemed unacceptable and hurtful to the religious sentiments of minority communities in Pakistan.

The leaders emphasized that Pakistan’s Constitution guarantees freedom of religion and protection to all citizens, regardless of their faith. They called upon the government to take immediate action to prevent such incidents and ensure the safety and security of minority communities.

They also appeal to the government to ban this individual’s entry into Pakistan, as his presence is harmful to our efforts of promoting interfaith harmony and coexistence.

The conference also highlighted the importance of promoting tolerance, understanding, and respect among different faith communities. The leaders emphasized that interfaith dialogue and cooperation are essential for building a peaceful and harmonious society.

They further said that “We believe in the importance of interfaith dialogue and cooperation. We must work together to promote tolerance, understanding, and respect among different faith communities.”

The leaders also requested the government to invite the Imam of Kaaba to visit Pakistan as he shares message of peace and tolerance with us. His presence will promote greater understanding and cooperation among different faith communities.

The press conference concluded with a call to action, urging the government and civil society to work together to promote interfaith harmony, tolerance, and coexistence in Pakistan.