Allama Sajid Naqvi says he will protect pilgrims if Pakistani state fails to protect them

Allama Syed Sajid Ali Naqvi, Chief of Shia Ulema Council Pakistan, has vowed that that he would protect the Shia pilgrims who travel to Iran by road from Pakistan for pilgrimage of the holy shrines of Imam Reza in Mashahd and of Bibi Fatima Masoomah in Qom.

 “It is the responsibility of the state of Pakistan to protect Shia pilgrims and ensure their safe travel in Pakistani territory. If they fail to do so, I shall shoulder this responsibility,” he told reporters after addressing Shiites at central Imam Bargah Sukkur.

Leading Shia scholar of Pakistan, according to Shiite News correspondent, said that he would talk to federal interior minister Chaudhry Nisar how he asked Shiites to travel to Iran by air. He said it was illogical because all people cannot afford the air travel’s expenses.

“First, the government makes it clear they cannot ensure safe travel for pilgrims by road. I shall make arrangements if the government fails to do so. In that case, government will be held responsible for the repercussions,” he warned.