SOHAIL ANJUM MALIK
ISLAMABAD: Vice President of Voice of Karwan-e-Salar Pakistan, Syed Najam Abbas Naqvi, has urged the government to withdraw its reported restrictions on Pakistani pilgrims intending to participate in Arbaeen-e-Hussaini, stressing that such religious obligations cannot be compromised. He emphasized that ensuring the safety and facilitation of citizens—particularly religious pilgrims—is a constitutional responsibility of the state.
Addressing a press conference at the National Press Club Islamabad, accompanied by Patron-in-Chief Syed Zawar Hussain Shah, Syed Farhat Shah, and other officials, Naqvi criticized the recent stance of Federal Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Naqvi, who allegedly cited security concerns as grounds for halting pilgrims from traveling to Iraq for Arbaeen. He described this decision as unjustified and deeply hurtful to the religious sentiments of the Shia community.
Naqvi stated that despite past periods of extreme terrorism in Pakistan, religious convoys were never obstructed. “If the state believes that terrorists in Balochistan can be dealt with by an SHO, then providing security to peaceful pilgrims should not be a challenge,” he remarked.
He revealed that over 50,000 pilgrims from across Pakistan have already obtained their visas for the pilgrimage. Bookings for buses and accommodations have been finalized, and last-minute cancellations by the government could lead to billions in financial losses. He reiterated that Voice of Karwan-e-Salar Pakistan has always advocated peace and has never resorted to violence, but it remains firm on its right to observe religious traditions.
On the occasion, Patron-in-Chief Syed Zawar Hussain Shah said that time is short, and the convoys are fully prepared. If overland travel is not allowed, the government must facilitate air travel by providing special flights, ticket subsidies, and tax exemptions so that pilgrims can fulfill their obligations without hindrance.
Speaking in support, Syed Farhat Shah stated that the Interior Minister’s comments have caused disappointment among the Shia population and may incite religious discord. He stressed that the community will not abandon its religious duties and called on the government to immediately reconsider its decision.
The leaders also appealed to Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir, President Asif Ali Zardari, and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif to intervene in the matter and ensure the safety, dignity, and convenience of thousands of Pakistani pilgrims.