The 61st radio program as part of the Center for Research and Security Studies’ (CRSS) counter-radicalization initiative Ulasi Taroon (Social Cohesion) was aired on March 22, 2019, on the subject theme.
The radio show reflected upon the objectives of Pakistan Resolution 1940 and its connectivity with the core constitutional values, especially with regard to the human rights. The guests in the studio were of the view that given the creation of Pakistan was to ensure the protection of Muslims’ social, political and civil rights, there is a huge onus on the state of Pakistan to ensure all these rights for the minorities in Pakistan, to uphold equal citizenry and social cohesion in the country.
The first guest in studio Mr. Ali Imran from University of Peshawar, noted that we as a nation have achieved several significant milestones despite the challenges of a weak political structure. We should be thankful to have Pakistan as a sovereign state where its citizens have all the fundamental human rights available to them in the Constitution. Everyone must remember, Pakistan was created with immense human sacrifices and now it’s the responsibility of new generation to take the country forward with the same zeal and spirit. Role of leadership is critical to lead the nation towards the vision of the founder of Pakistan, Mr. Muhammad Ali Jinnah for peaceful and cohesive country.
The second guest on show, Mr. Fazal, an educationist, noted that minorities are our brethren. The notion of equal citizenry is embedded in the constitution of Pakistan. Our law as well as religion give protection to minorities. Every religion believes in and promote peace including Islam. Our Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stressed upon the followers not to harm even trees and animals during a war, how can such a religion allow violation of human rights?
The third guest in studio Ms. Beenish, a lecturer at Iqra University, Peshawar, noted that we spend a major portion of our life with teachers – especially the formative years – for education. The citizens’ rights and responsibilities should be considered as an important component of education where the core constitutional values of peace and coexistence should be included in the educational curricula as a compulsory subject.
About Ulasi Taroon
Ulasi Taroon is a counter radicalization initiative of Center for Research and Security Studies that aims to address the radicalization challenges, extremist ideologies and foster social cohesion through a discourse anchored in the core constitutional values which are fundamentally essential prerequisites for social peace and harmony. The endeavor aims to cultivate and sensitize the people of KP in the core values in the Pakistani constitution and our social contract. It’s an attempt to highlight the criticality of abiding by these ideals – such as adherence to rule of law, primacy and sanctity of constitution, equal citizenry, responsible citizenship, respect for fundamental human rights, tolerance for diversity and different opinions, inclusive democracy and good governance – as a measure of fostering social cohesion and peaceful co-existence.