In a recent letter to President Asif Ali Zardari, President Bishop of the Synod, Church of Pakistan, Rev Dr. Azad Marshall, he voiced concerns over Dr. Zakir Naik’s remarks about the Christian community and their beliefs. Dr. Naik visited as a state guest last week, giving public speeches and participating in discussions.
The letter notes Dr. Naik’s comments that distressed the Christian community by questioning their faith’s authenticity, discrediting sacred texts, and undermining Christian pastors and scholars. Dr. Marshall stated that these remarks offended religious sentiments and diminished national pride across all faiths.
Dr. Marshall also criticized the government’s failure to express regret over Dr. Naik’s statements officially. This lack of response has deepened the Christian community’s sense of marginalization despite assurances of religious harmony and mutual respect.
Dr. Marshall urged the government to prevent such divisive incidents, sponsored by the state, from occurring. He referenced Quaid-e-Azam’s 1947 speech to the Constituent Assembly, noting Dr. Naik’s disrespect to the founding vision. He also mentioned the lack of opportunity for pastors and scholars to respond to or correct misinformation in these public forums.
Dr. Marshall highlighted that the Constitution protects minorities’ rights under Article 20, allowing every citizen to profess, practice, and propagate their religion. He also mentioned Article 36, which obligates the state to protect minority rights. Dr. Marshall called on President Zardari to ensure these constitutional rights are respected.
