Maulana Fazlur Rehman, the leader of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F), clarified that his party has no disagreement with religious scholars or seminaries but holds grievances solely against the President of Pakistan. Speaking to the media in Dera Ismail Khan, he questioned why the President objected to a bill approved by the government regarding the registration of religious seminaries.
The Issue with the Bill
Maulana Fazlur Rehman highlighted that:
- The government prepared the bill for the registration of religious seminaries (madrasas).
- His party had demanded approval of the draft during the 26th Constitutional Amendment, which was introduced before elections under Shahbaz Sharif’s government.
- The bill was unanimously passed by both houses of Parliament.
However, he questioned the delay in signing the bill:
- “Why were signatures withheld on a bill that was unanimously approved?”
- “Both PPP and PML-N contributed to drafting this legislation. Why did President Asif Ali Zardari feel the need to intervene?”
- He also pointed out that state institutions were involved in every stage of the process.
Allegations of Unnecessary Controversy
Maulana Fazlur Rehman criticized those creating confusion around the issue:
- “The matter of seminaries has been unnecessarily complicated.”
- He questioned why organizations and individuals managing madrasas under the Directorate General of Religious Education were blamed for their actions.
Addressing the religious scholars, he said:
- “We have no differences with any seminary, its organizations, or scholars. The uproar is being created on the directions of those who drafted the bill.”
Concerns About Division Among Seminaries
Maulana voiced concerns about attempts to divide the madrasa system:
- “We have reservations about the formation of new madrasa organizations and the division within them. Were institutions not involved in creating these divisions?”
- He questioned whether those responsible for this division could be trusted on related matters.
Message to Religious Scholars
He urged scholars to understand the real culprits behind the controversy:
- “Those who instigated this conflict are the ones responsible for it. Who are you fighting against?”
- He called for clarity on why questions are raised solely about the registration of religious seminaries when other welfare and educational institutions are registered under national laws.
Maulana Fazlur Rehman Complaint Against the President
Maulana Fazlur Rehman reiterated that the blame lies with the President’s Office:
- “If the constitutional amendment was signed, why was the bill delayed?”
- He also questioned whether the President has the authority to send objections to a Parliament-approved bill twice.
Looking Ahead
Maulana assured that his party stands for the law and national unity. He dismissed claims of any wrongdoing, stating:
- “We’ve done nothing wrong. Our sole complaint is with the President of Pakistan.”
Further details about the issue are expected to emerge as the debate continues.