LAHORE, Sunday, August 24, 2025 (WNP): A diverse panel of religious scholars, academics, intellectuals, and students on Sunday underscored the pivotal role of media and ulema in fostering a peaceful society and countering extremist ideologies, during a thought-provoking session organized by the Idara-e-Taleem-o-Tahqeeq.

The intellectual sitting, themed “The Role of Ulema in Building a Peaceful Society,” brought together prominent figures including Chairman of the Council of Islamic Ideology (CII) Dr. Allama Muhammad Raghib Hussain Naeemi, Senior Journalist and Director SACH News Hanif Qamar, Secretary of Auqaf and Religious Affairs Tahir Raza Bukhari, Dean of Minhaj University Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akram, Jamaat-e-Islami leader Mian Maqsood Ahmed, Idara Fikr Jadeed’s Sahibzada Amanat Rasool, GIFT University’s Prof. Dr. Ammar Khan Nasir, mental health expert Dr. Shehryar Nasir, and Mufti Imran of Jamia Naeemia, along with provincial-level ulema, intellectuals, and students.

The speakers collectively stressed that building social harmony requires addressing root causes of intolerance and sectarian divides through dialogue, education, and community engagement. Highlighting the role of clerics, they said religious leaders must act as bridges of unity rather than voices of division.

In his remarks, Senior Journalist Hanif Qamar emphasized “the critical responsibility of the media in eliminating religious and intellectual polarization.” He noted that responsible journalism and balanced reporting could play a decisive role in de-escalating tensions and fostering an environment of mutual respect.

Secretary Auqaf Tahir Raza Bukhari underlined the importance of promoting inclusive narratives from mosques and religious institutions, while Dr. Ammar Khan Nasir stressed empowering youth with critical thinking skills to resist extremist propaganda.

Mental health expert Dr. Shehryar Nasir drew attention to the psychological aspects of extremism, urging faith leaders and media alike to consider mental health as a crucial element in peacebuilding.

The session concluded with a unanimous call for a collaborative strategy where ulema, policymakers, media, and civil society institutions work in tandem to nurture tolerance, interfaith harmony, and a sustainable culture of peace in Pakistan.