Monster of religious extremism

The new wave of religious extremism and radicalisation has intensely excruciated and affected our lives and we can no longer ignore the impact and influence of the drastically changing religious picture on geo-political situation of our country and region.

The growing misinterpretation and distorted misrepresentation of Islamic teaching by religious extremists have completely damaged and deteriorated the positive image of Islam. It is worth mentioning here that in our society we can find numerous religious clerics who are humanity legends with noble soul, who are putting their best efforts with selfless dedication to spread the real essence and spirit of Islam but unfortunately there are few Fanatic and extremist religious clergies who have hijacked the ideology and philosophy of Islam and claim to be the guardians and devoted preachers but one must keep in mind that all these elements have nothing to do with religion except achieving their heinous agendas and pose real threat to religion.

It is also a matter fact that not only Islam but every religion never permits and justifies any kind of violence or killing, even Islam is the religion which insists and reiterates on the rights of other people. It gives us clear message that killing of one innocent person is equal to the killing of entire humanity and teaches us that Allah will show only mercy on us when we will show mercy on other living beings. In light of true religious teaching it is quite clear that Islam spreads the message of peace, harmony and universal brotherhood.

In past, we accused and blamed madaris and Islamic institutions for promulgation of religious extremism, fundamentalism and aggression but now what is even more disturbing is the fact  such mindset and mentality has infiltrated in our schools, colleges and universities and sword of Damocles is hanging over heads. Our youth is completely at its wit’s end as they are being brainwashed and instigated to embrace such teaching. And if an effective counter narrative isn’t initiated timely then ultimately our youth belonging to educated and rich families will become the victim of radicalisation as well.

There is the unprecedented need for collective action to put an end to religious extremism and sectarian violence. We have to make heaven and earth together to project soft and true image of Islam and build the harmony, tolerance and brotherhood. Moreover, there is a dire need to speak out against religious radicalisation at different forums and have to portray ourselves like peace loving nation and have no link with extremism and terrorism. For this reformation everyone should rise above and be more aware about the essence and spirit of Islam instead of blindly relying and following religious clergies and their hollow slogans, we should consult to Holy Quran for true guidance as acquisition of religious knowledge is necessary for every individual so it should be our prime practice to read the Holy Quran with meaning.

In order to curb the religious extremism government also must explore all possible avenues to eradicate the poverty and social disparity and must provide speedy justice, standard education, jobs opportunities and health facilities so that our poor and deprived fraction of society cannot become the victim of their deceptive sympathies and exploitation. By observing the gravity of situation we have to promulgate the real interpretation and teachings of Islam in our Colleges and universities as well. It will be extremely helpful step if we make sure that in our schools and colleges the practice of recitation of Holy Quran with Urdu meaning under the supervision of related scholars is carried out. Meanwhile, a proper monitoring mechanism is needed for education institutions and madaris to trace out and curb such mentality which is deteriorating the image of Islam and killing the innocent people in the name of God.

Imran Ali Phull

Karachi