Thousands of people took part in a peaceful protest rally organized by the religious parties here on Saturday against the anti-Islam film that has sparked strong resentment across Pakistan and the Muslim Ummah. The protest was jointly organized by Jamaat Ahle Sunnat, Sunni Itehad Council Sunni Rahbar Council and other organizations which started from Namaish, MA Jinnah Road, and turned into a major public meeting at Tibet centre. A large number of students participated while the people from all parts of the city reached the venue of the meeting. Chanting “Down with America” and demanding expulsion of the US ambassador, the participants were addressed by prominent religious leaders including Mufti Muneeb-ur-Rehman, Maulana Owais Noorani, Maulana Sarwat Ijaz Qadri and others. They demanded stern punishment for the filmmaker but asked the protesters to remain peaceful.
They said no one can be allowed to commit sins in the name of freedom of expression as extreme resentment was observed among people against the sacrilegious film. Mufti Munib demanded an international legislation for action against those who try to enrage the sentiments of people of any religion. He said the Muslims are a peaceful nation and protest is their right. He asked the Muslim rulers to strongly raise the issue and represent the aspirations of the people strongly. The speakers also called on the UN to play its role for inter-faith harmony. After the address, the participants of Tahafiz-e-Namoos Rally dispersed peacefully. The provincial government banned all sorts of meetings and rallies as well as display of arms but on the assurance of the Sunni parties, the provincial allowed them to take out the rally up to Tibet centre.
