Maulana Zaheen Najafi’s strong reaction to the Arbaeen by-road travel ban

Shiite News: Maulana Zaheen Najafi expressed concern over the Pakistani Ministry of Interior’s ban on the land travel of pilgrims and said that we are presenting a serious, meaningful and brotherly message to you from Najaf Ashraf, which is the abode of the Commander of the Faithful (AS) and the center of spirituality.

At that time, millions of believers in Pakistan, Shia and Sunni, were preparing for the holy journey of Arbaeen, the majority of whom are the lovers of Hussain (AS) who have dedicated their entire lives’ savings, time, emotions and intentions to this path.

He said that the sudden decision of the Government of Pakistan and especially the Ministry of Interior to ban the pilgrimage by road is not only a manifestation of administrative irresponsibility, but it has also given rise to a major spiritual, collective and national crisis. This decision has struck like lightning on the hearts of the nation who beat in love with Imam Hussain (AS), and consider this path as a field of worship, devotion and loyalty.

He further said: Mr. Minister, if this decision was really inevitable, it should have been taken in a very timely, transparent and consultative manner.

A few days ago, you yourself gave good news in the tripartite meeting, informed about the preparations and reassured the nation.

Then on what basis did this sudden decision come out? If there were security or other threats, the question arises whether the state’s responsibility is only to inform about the threats, or to protect against these threats, find solutions to them and provide a safe path for the nation?

He said that it is also important to understand that this journey of Arbaeen is not just an act of taking a path, but a spiritual practice, a collective consciousness, and a faith-building act.

The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said that “the heat of the killing of Hussain (a.s.) will never cool in the hearts of the believers.” This is the same heat that is still burning in the hearts of the believers of Pakistan today, and this heat motivates them to say Labaik Ya Hussain (a.s.) despite every obstacle.

Maulana Syed Zaheen Najafi said that at this time, if the state ignores this heat instead of handling it with respect, it will not only be an emotional loss but also a national shock.

If the land route is really not possible at present, then the state should immediately provide alternative means. National airlines, private flights, or any other organized air arrangement should be brought forward so that the pilgrims are not inconvenienced and their journey is not delayed.

He said that we expect you to immediately reconsider this decision and give the nation an opportunity to thank and pray, do not force them to curse, and play the role of a path of salvation in this trial, and not become a wall.

He finally said that we raise our hands in the court of God and pray that God Almighty protects Pakistan, gives strength and insight to its protectors, protects this country from sectarianism, malice and indifference, and makes Pakistan the flag bearer of the Hussaini mission.