By Rehan Khan
ISLAMABAD, Mar 14 (APP): Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Sardar Muhammad Yousaf on Friday underscored the profound significance of the Holy Prophet Muhammad Peace Be Upon Him as He is central to the identity of Muslims worldwide and a blessing for all humanity.
Addressing a press conference at the ministry, Minister Yousaf welcomed the United Nations’ designation of March 15 as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, which coincides with Pakistan’s observance of the Protection of the Sanctity of Prophet-hood Day. He emphasized that reverence for the Prophet Peace Be Upon Him is upheld across religious traditions and reiterated that blasphemy against him carries the death penalty under Pakistani law.
The minister recalled his role in a legislative amendment during former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s tenure, which revised Section 295-C of the Pakistan Penal Code. The amendment removed the option of life imprisonment for blasphemy, making the death penalty the sole punishment, he added.
Pakistan, he affirmed, fully supports the UN initiative against Islamophobia and has directed all provinces to observe the Protection of the Sanctity of Prophethood Day. He noted that Friday sermons nationwide focused on the Prophet’s Peace Be Upon Him honor, reflecting the government’s commitment to safeguarding religious sentiments.
Minister Yousaf also raised concerns over the misuse of social media, where blasphemous content is being circulated. Urging vigilance, he advised the public to report such incidents through the ministry’s portal and cautioned young users against sharing sensitive material that could have legal repercussions. He called on parents to monitor their children’s online activities to prevent unintentional involvement in controversial content.
Reiterating Pakistan’s stance on religious harmony, he stressed that belief in the finality of Prophethood is a fundamental tenet of Islam and that anyone denying it falls outside the fold of the faith. While assuring that Pakistan upholds religious freedoms for all citizens, he emphasized the importance of mutual respect between religious communities.
Regarding the bill on protecting the sanctity of the Prophet’s Companions (Sahaba) and the Holy Household (Ahl-e-Bayt), Minister Yousaf said it had been passed by both houses of Parliament, though its current status remains uncertain. He assured that if the bill is resubmitted, it will be considered in a joint parliamentary session.
Concluding his remarks, the minister reiterated the need for responsible digital engagement and warned against sharing content that could incite religious discord or legal consequences.