Islamabad: During a significant convention held in the city, leaders of the Shia community in Pakistan voiced strong opposition against what they termed unconstitutional restrictions on their religious mourning practices. The convention focused on the ‘Azadari (mourning) of Imam Hussain (AS)’, a central tenet of Shia Islam, which they assert is being threatened by biased standard operating procedures (SOPs).

According to Tehreek Nafaze Fiqhe Jafariya, the convention drew religious leaders and mourners from across the country to discuss and address the issues facing the Shia community, including the perceived encroachments on their constitutional rights to worship and express their religious beliefs. Agha Syed Hamid Ali Shah Mousavi, a prominent leader at the event, highlighted the historical resilience of the community against oppressive measures and reiterated their readiness to protect their traditions at all costs.

The leaders at the convention denounced the government’s failure to safeguard the mourners and called for immediate action to rectify this oversight. They emphasized the importance of religious tolerance and the establishment of peace and order as foundational for a harmonious society. The event also served as a platform to address broader societal issues, including the protection of national rights and opposition to foreign interference.

The convention concluded with a unified call for the government to ensure the safety of the borders, particularly in areas like Para Chinar Karam Agency, and to facilitate the mourners during the days of mourning for Imam Hussain. The community leaders urged adherence to established mourning codes and demanded government action to resolve ongoing challenges faced by the mourners.