Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has voiced sharp criticism of the government and establishment, accusing them of systematically undermining religious seminaries. Speaking at an event in Peshawar, he said,
"We cannot trust the establishment or bureaucracy, no matter how sweetly they speak. They have destroyed our seminaries, and we will free them from this stranglehold."
Rehman lamented the state’s refusal to facilitate seminaries' registration and financial operations, saying:
“We have asked for registration and bank accounts to work within the state system, but they are forcing seminaries toward extremism. Yet we are exercising patience.”
Also Read: Rain and Snowfall Expected Across Various Regions of Pakistan
Highlighting the role of seminaries in combating ideological threats, he declared,
"These institutions provide religious guidance and are now being unjustly pressured. We are fighting a battle for religious survival and will stand firm."
The seminaries' registration bill remains a contentious issue. Maulana Fazlur Rehman detailed years of negotiations with the government, culminating in a draft agreement under the 1860 Societies Act. He alleged that, despite consensus and legislative approval, the bill has been deliberately stalled.
"We negotiated in good faith, but our patience has limits. If pushed further, we will show them whose resolve is stronger," he warned, dismissing recent objections from the government as unacceptable.
Insiders have revealed that JUI-F is contemplating a large-scale march toward Islamabad if the deadlock persists. A consultative meeting is planned to finalize the strategy and potential dates, with an announcement expected at a rally in Peshawar tomorrow.
JUI-F spokesperson Aslam Ghori confirmed that preparations are complete for the "Israel Murdabad" (Down with Israel) conference in Peshawar. The event will highlight the government's insincerity toward seminaries and express solidarity with Palestine.
Ghori stated:
"We will announce the next steps regarding the seminaries' bill and stand firmly against this government's duplicity. The conference will also condemn atrocities in Palestine, reflecting the sentiments of the entire Muslim Ummah."
