LAHORE: Supreme Court Judge Justice Mansoor Ali Shah has advocated for the inclusion of minority judges in the judiciary, emphasizing the importance of co-existence and tolerance in society.
Addressing a conference organized by the Implementation Minority Rights Forum in Lahore, Justice Shah highlighted the significance of the national flag in representing minorities, noting that the white color symbolizes them along with other national emblems.
He pointed out the demographic composition of Pakistan, with Muslims comprising 96%, and minorities such as Hindus, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Zoroastrians making up the remaining percentage.
Justice Shah expressed concern over Pakistan’s ranking in the religious freedom segment of the Freedoms House Report by the European Union in 2023. He cited instances of discrimination and violence against religious minorities, emphasizing the need for effective safeguards against such injustices.
Quoting from the report, Supreme Court Justice Shah emphasized the critical importance of safeguarding religious freedom and ensuring the protection of minorities from discrimination and violence.
He called for concerted efforts to address these challenges and emphasized the need to work in accordance with the Constitution, which guarantees equal rights to Muslims and minorities alike.
Referring to a verse from the Holy Quran, Justice Shah stressed the principle of freedom of belief and religious faith without coercion, emphasizing the importance of personal conviction in matters of faith.
He also highlighted the Constitution of Madina’s call for a pluralistic society, emphasizing the need to embrace diversity and respect differing viewpoints.
Quoting contemporary Islamic thought leader Tariq Ramadan, Justice Shah emphasized the importance of managing disagreements with civility and respect, stating that true pluralism lies in how disagreements are handled.
In conclusion, Justice Shah emphasized the need to translate statements into action and create space for pluralism in society through concrete measures rather than mere rhetoric.
I am an accomplished graduate of Strategic Studies, driven by a fervent dedication to comprehending global affairs and devising impactful strategies. Equipped with a comprehensive skill set encompassing research, critical thinking, and persuasive communication, I possess a distinctive viewpoint and an unwavering commitment to fostering inclusive decision-making processes. As a versatile individual, I excel in collaborating with diverse groups in various settings, leveraging my strong interpersonal abilities to adapt seamlessly to new environments and surmount any challenges that arise. With a passion for contributing to strategic initiatives, I am eager to leverage my expertise and drive to effect positive change within the field.
