ISLAMABAD: Federal Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar on Thursday announced that the government is introducing procedural safeguards in blasphemy-related cases to prevent misuse of the law and ensure timely justice.
Speaking at a symposium titled “Interfaith Harmony and Fundamental Rights – A Constitutional Imperative”, the minister said that the move aims to uphold the rule of law while protecting individuals from false accusations and mob violence.
The event, jointly organised by the Law and Justice Commission of Pakistan (LJCP) and the Federal Judicial Academy (FJA), was held at the Supreme Court auditorium.
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Tarar urged religious scholars and leaders to promote compassion, humanity, and tolerance within society, noting that their words hold great influence in shaping public attitudes.
He also called on educators, media professionals, and civil society to play their role in advancing interfaith understanding and social cohesion. “The message of Islam has always been peace and respect for all humanity,” he said.
In his opening address, Chief Justice of Pakistan Yahya Afridi emphasised that interfaith dialogue must translate into judicial practice and societal transformation.
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He said the goal was to build a Pakistan where justice is delivered without delay, rights are not only declared but realised, and the law becomes a unifying force for peace and equality.
Dr Muhammad bin Abdul Karim Al-Issa, former head of the Saudi judiciary and 2022 Hajj sermon preacher at Arafat, praised Pakistan as “a leading model in preserving the rights of minorities”. He lauded the Supreme Court’s efforts in upholding constitutional protections for all citizens.
Former Chief Justice Tassaduq Hussain Jillani echoed these sentiments, stating that the judiciary carries a sacred constitutional duty to uphold equality, pluralism, and the rule of law.
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At the close of the event, participants adopted a declaration on interfaith harmony, which called for:
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Integrating human rights and interfaith sensitivity into judicial training.
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Strengthening institutions for minority protection and inclusion.
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Promoting mutual respect and social cohesion as essential pillars of national unity.
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Ensuring that equality and justice—as guaranteed by the Constitution—are upheld for all citizens.
The symposium concluded with a reaffirmation of Pakistan’s commitment to a society rooted in peace, justice, and pluralism.