Karachi: Ambassador Imam Allama Ehsan Siddiqui has strongly condemned the brutal killing of journalist and member of the IRF, Imtiaz Mir. The Interfaith Commission for Peace & Harmony (ICPH) and International Religious Freedom Roundtable for Pakistan (IRF Pakistan) have expressed deep sorrow and grief over the tragic murder of prominent journalist and anchorperson Imtiaz Mir.
Imtiaz Mir was a staunch advocate of religious freedom, peace, and interfaith harmony. In his condolence statement, Co-Chair of the International Religious Freedom Roundtable for Pakistan (IRF Pakistan) and Chairman of the Interfaith Commission for Peace & Harmony (ICPH), Global Ambassador for Peace and Human Rights, Imam Allama Muhammad Ehsan Siddiqui, said that journalism is the eyes and voice of society, and the killing of a truthful and courageous journalist is an act of sheer terrorism, which must be condemned in the strongest possible terms.
Imtiaz Mir was a hardworking and fearless journalist who consistently highlighted public issues. Allama Ehsan Siddiqui said that in 2023, he accompanied the IRF Pakistan delegation to Washington, D.C., USA, where they attended the International Religious Freedom Summit 2023. Following that visit, Imtiaz Mir was nominated as an Ambassador of Peace by the world’s largest peace organization, the Universal Peace Federation (UPF), at the Washington Times office.
He further stated that, as Chairman of ICPH and Co-Chairman of IRF Pakistan, they strongly condemn the brutal murder of Imtiaz Mir, who was like a brother to him. “His voice has been silenced, but his legacy will continue to inspire us to strive for freedom of the press, peace, and social harmony,” he added.
Imam Allama Muhammad Ehsan Siddiqui further said that the Interfaith Commission for Peace & Harmony (ICPH) and International Religious Freedom Roundtable for Pakistan (IRF Pakistan) demand that the culprits be immediately arrested and that financial compensation be provided to the bereaved family of the slain journalist. “We express complete solidarity with the journalist community, religious leadership, and the family of Imtiaz Mir. The government must take concrete measures to ensure the safety of journalists,” he emphasized.
He said that the services of Imtiaz Mir will always be remembered. He further added, “On behalf of all peace ambassadors, board of directors, team members, management, and staff of ICPH and IRF Pakistan, we extend our heartfelt condolences and sympathies to the bereaved family and all those affected. May Almighty Allah grant the departed soul the highest place in Jannat-ul-Firdous.”
