News:
The Chairman of the Pakistan Ulema Council, Hafiz Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi, has dismissed concerns surrounding the Punjab government’s recent announcement of a stipend for Imams. Addressing a press conference in Lahore, he refuted the impression that this move is an attempt to impose government control over religious scholars.
“This impression that the government will impose itself by giving a stipend is not correct,” Ashrafi stated clearly.
He further assured that the Ulema Council will not create obstacles for anyone regarding this matter. He clarified that Imams who wish to accept the stipend from the Punjab government are free to do so, and those who choose not to accept it will face no pressure.
In addition to domestic matters, Ashrafi also commented on the regional situation. He expressed strong optimism for the future, stating that he is hopeful for an improvement in the relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
Concluding his remarks, he reiterated Pakistan’s long-standing position on the Middle East crisis, adding, “We want the establishment of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state.”
