Restrictions on Arbaeen processions are unacceptable, says Allama Arif Wahidi

Shiite News: Shia Ulema Council Pakistan’s central vice president, Allama Arif Hussain Wahidi, has strongly condemned government actions hindering Arbaeen processions.

Speaking to the media at Committee Chowk during the central Chehlum (Arbaeen) procession of Imam Hussain (A.S.), alongside Allama Farhat Abbas Jawadi, Maulana Raza Muhammad Khan, Maulana Qamar Abbas Jafari, Maulana Abdul Majeed, and Ali Abbas Naqvi, he stressed that the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Hussain (A.S.) is being observed across the country with deep reverence, devotion, and religious fervor.
“All forms of restrictions on the mourning of Imam Hussain (A.S.) are unacceptable,” Wahidi asserted, adding that Azadari (mourning rituals) ensures the survival of God’s religion. “Imam Hussain (A.S.) is the symbol of Muslim unity, the voice of the oppressed, and the stand against injustice.

Chehlum is not exclusive to Shia Muslims – people from different sects and faiths participate, demonstrating interfaith harmony and expressing their love for the grandson of the Holy Prophet (PBUH), who revived Islamic values.”
Wahidi acknowledged that provincial authorities had made satisfactory security arrangements but criticized the government for creating hurdles in mourning processions.

He revealed that two days earlier, a three-hour-long meeting was held with Punjab ministers, the home secretary, chief secretary, additional IGs, and other officials, where it was clearly conveyed that mourning processions were not against anyone and must not be obstructed.
“Unfortunately, unjust and unconstitutional arrests of mourners were made at certain locations in Punjab.

Although some detainees were released, fresh reports of arrests have surfaced since yesterday, which is unacceptable,” he said.

Wahidi added that he had contacted the Punjab Home Secretary, who assured cooperation, expressing hope that all issues would be resolved amicably.
Concluding his remarks, Wahidi conveyed the message of Quaid-i-Millat-i-Jafariya Pakistan, Allama Syed Sajid Ali Naqvi, stating: “Mourners are peaceful people. We have played a key role in promoting unity and harmony in Pakistan, and this struggle will continue. Any obstruction in Azadari is unacceptable to us.”