Nehal Hashmi: Sindh Governor Syed Muhammad Nehal Hashmi has urged Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman to withdraw his remarks about Pakistan’s martyrs, saying the nation takes pride in those who sacrificed their lives in the country’s defence.

Speaking at a press conference at the Governor House in Karachi, Hashmi said the term “Shaheed” comes from the Holy Quran and not from Pakistan’s Constitution. He added that the sacrifices of martyrs and war veterans would always remain a source of national pride.

The governor said Islam promotes peace, tolerance and coexistence. He said members of the Pakistan Army, Pakistan Navy, Pakistan Air Force, Rangers and Police who sacrifice their lives while defending the country attain the status of martyrs.

Hashmi praised Pakistan’s armed forces for defeating what he described as a much larger adversary. He said the military had demonstrated professionalism and successfully foiled hostile designs against the country.

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He also criticised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, claiming his policies contradict humanitarian values. Hashmi said Pakistan must remain united to face current national challenges and strengthen its security.

The governor said the country’s military leadership had established a strong deterrence against its adversaries. He added that national unity and solidarity remain essential for Pakistan’s stability.

Pakistan Ulema Council Chairman Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi also addressed the press conference. He said the National Paigham-e-Aman Committee represents religious scholars from all schools of thought and is expanding its organisational structure across the country.

Ashrafi said Pakistan’s martyrs deserve respect and that no one should insult them or the country’s war veterans. He added that more than 8,000 religious scholars had sacrificed their lives for Pakistan and reaffirmed the religious leadership’s support for the armed forces.

He also said Pakistan belongs to followers of all religions and sects. Ashrafi added that anyone who attacks Pakistan becomes an enemy of the nation. He accused India and Israel of trying to destabilise the region and said the Pakistani people remain united for peace and national cohesion.

Ashrafi rejected any link between terrorism and Islam. He described the Paigham-e-Pakistan declaration as a national consensus document and called for stronger implementation of its code of conduct.