Recently, the shrine of Saint Muhammad Ali in Sargodha became a slaughterhouse. The custodian of the Shrine Abdul Wahid drugged the devotees and brutally killed 22 innocent people with the help of his associates. These extremists have been manipulating people since ages. People consider them God-gifted, miraculous leaders who are above the law. They are a threat to humanity and civilised society but they pose as the icons of religion. It should be an eye opening event for the people who blindly follow such religious madmen and show reverence to them. Rampant illiteracy, ignorance and fickle mindedness are the basic causes of such criminal activities. People must learn about their religion which gives guidance to all. The culprits must be thoroughly investigated, prosecuted and punished for their crimes. They should be given exemplary punishment to deter others. Shrine is supposed to be a sanctuary for the devotees and a place for seeking refuge from worldly troubles. It is the responsibility of the religious leaders to unmask such persons and educate the masses.
JAVAID BASHIR
Lahore
