Sectarianism-a clichéd argument

The topic has been debated hotly courtesy the recent events-so I kept suppressing my desire too raise voice on this issue. Nevertheless, the circumstances have taken a turn whereby it is imperative that every responsible citizen raises his/her voice.

The conflict has been imbedded in the minds since the inception but only recently has it shown its perilous face. I myself would like to indulge in a discussion where I can prove the other ideology –or rather the other party- as wronged while relying on the facts or where I have an opportunity to grab more knowledge related to the argument. This kind of a healthy atmosphere actually builds up the character of a nation.

However, some amongst us have resorted to action. They believe that by inciting turmoil in the congregations of the other sects, by killing their prominent leaders and scholars, and by wreaking havoc in their places of worship through blasts they can prove their ideology as the correct one, or rather the superior one. They are immune do the lives lost of innocent people who have nothing to do with this-who happen to be a passerby while a suicide attack takes place, unperturbed by the loss of property and unflustered by the stereotype image of Muslims and Pakistan that is produced by their activities.

What is the most disturbing is that the common man is taking alliance with one group or another. The basic purpose behind this piece of writing is to make people comprehend that we may hold rigid beliefs against an individual or a group but we have not been granted the right to take action regarding their fate. Only the court of justice has the authority to decide on one’s life. A place where people take law into their own hands for deciding the fate of others is known as a jungle in common words. More importantly, when one organization or individual takes action that affects the life of another human being, a wrong precedent is set: it encourages every other individual who breeds the same thought, to disregard law and act upon his own judgments.

In my view, people can resort to such actions only when they believe their ideology has lost credence and faith in it has become feeble. I simply cannot understand how their activities would help them “eradicate” the “Non-Muslims.” On the contrary, this will not only unite “their enemy” but it will also thwart the economical and social progress of the country besides turning it into a state where jungle law prevails.

I, therefore, request every responsible citizen to articulate his voice on this matter at every possible forum. It is necessary that the common man does not indulge into this sectarian war for this will only lead to a civil war in this state. Spreading education and awareness is the only way this ideology can be countered!