The assistant commissioner of Kharan issued an order last week banning barbers from trimming the beards of their clients in a manner that would be deemed for design or stylish. He also categorically declared that this practice was un-Islamic. It was gracious of the assistant commissioner to save much of the Islamic world by later clarifying that the ban on the styling of beards was limited to the city areas only.
As we advance in our Islamic accomplishments, we see that not just dictators but democratic leaders and even junior government officials can introduce new versions of Islam. The recent harsher version of the Ramzan Bill that calls for a fine of Rs 500 and a prison term of three months is a case in point.
The people of Pakistan need to ponder whether they should accept new – and often incorrect – religious injunctions imposed by bureaucrats and lawmakers. Our parliamentarians have acquired 69,473 prohibited bore weapon licenses for its members.
It may therefore be best to allow people to seek peace, tolerance and compassion in their faith and not be dictated by those whose own character and wisdom are questionable.
Alina Arif
Karachi
