Maulana Fazlur Rehman warns Government against interfering in Madrassas

Chenab Nagar: Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman strongly criticized the government for what he called attempts to weaken the independence of religious seminaries and for remaining silent on international issues, especially Palestine.

Speaking at the Khatm-e-Nabuwwat Conference in Chenab Nagar, he urged his supporters to stay united and confident.

“Trust your strength and step forward—no one can harm you,” he told the participants.

Maulana warned that the government was trying to weaken religious schools. He said the recent laws on madrassa registration and bank accounts were part of the same plan. “If there is any authentic religious authority, it is the Wafaq-ul-Madaris Al-Arabia Pakistan,” he added, criticizing the creation of “dummy organizations” to pressure madrassas into registration.

The JUI-F chief accused the government, particularly the PML-N, of trying to “buy” madrassas with small financial offers. “We reject this offer of ten thousand rupees on behalf of all seminaries,” he declared.

He emphasized that religious teachers, scholars, and imams would continue their mission without state interference and maintain their identity.

Commenting on foreign policy, Fazlur Rehman expressed deep concern over the ongoing crisis in Palestine, saying, “Despite seventy thousand martyrs and more than one hundred fifty thousand displaced people, the Muslim world’s conscience has not awakened.” He said Palestinians themselves must have a voice in any peace process.

Criticizing both the government and the military leadership, he said, “The army fights wars and also holds negotiations; this contradiction creates confusion.”

He also rejected restrictions on political and religious gatherings, saying he supports peaceful movements but opposes violent protests.

Ending his speech, Maulana warned the government to act wisely and carefully. “We are giving you a chance to take your steps with caution,” he said.

Religious scholars, leaders, and regional representatives attended the conference and described his address as a strong message defending madrassas, national sovereignty, and the rights of the Muslim Ummah.