Islamabad: Ameer Jamaat-e-Islami North Punjab Dr. Tariq Saleem has said that Ramadan is a month of blessings and mercy, noting that Pakistan was also established during this sacred month. He emphasized that the country must be transformed into a true Islamic welfare state in line with the ideals upon which it was founded.
Dr. Tariq Saleem expressed these views while addressing participants of a five-day Fahm-ul-Quran class organized by Jamaat-e-Islami in Dina, District Jhelum. On the occasion, Dr. Qasim Mahmood Chaudhry also addressed the gathering. Dr. Tariq Saleem said that sectarian divisions among Muslims-including Shia, Sunni, Deobandi, and Barelvi-have weakened the Muslim Ummah, whereas Jamaat-e-Islami has consistently advocated unity among Muslims. He criticized the establishment of American military bases in Gulf countries, calling them a 'poisonous threat' to the Islamic world, and accused the United States of pursuing policies aimed at creating divisions and conflicts among Muslim nations. Condemning Israeli aggression against Iran, he said such actions are taking place under the patronage of the United States.
He also criticized the current government of Afghanistan, stating that it was expected to adopt a clear and strong stance on issues concerning Gaza, Palestine, and Iran. However, he expressed concern over Afghanistan's agreements with India, which he said could negatively affect the regional situation.
Dr. Tariq Saleem also criticized the economic policies of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. He said that instead of closing schools to save fuel, the government should reduce free fuel privileges for ministers and advisers. 'It is unjust to burden the poor with rising petrol prices while government officials continue to enjoy privileges,' he remarked. He warned that the recent increase in petroleum prices would trigger a new wave of inflation in the country, further worsening the economic hardships faced by the public. According to him, inflation, unemployment, and lawlessness have already made life extremely difficult for ordinary citizens.
Dr. Tariq Saleem said that the 'People's Agenda' presented by Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman at Minar-e-Pakistan offers a roadmap for pulling the country out of its current crises. He urged the public to support Jamaat-e-Islami so that this agenda can be implemented for the betterment of Pakistan and its people.