In a message addressed to scholars, preachers, elegy reciters, event organizers, and religious institutions, he emphasized the importance of holding Muharram gatherings in a peaceful, dignified, and unifying manner. He called on all stakeholders to preserve the sanctity and cohesion of these spiritual ceremonies.
Hujjat al-Islam Naqvi stressed that the culture of Ashura has historically played a key role in deepening love for the Ahl al-Bayt (PBUT) and promoting unity among different Islamic sects. He warned, however, that extremist and fanatical elements have consistently sought to weaken this culture by launching coordinated campaigns aimed at disrupting national unity and infringing on religious freedoms.
“These groups have tried to create administrative and security hurdles—banning new mourning groups, restricting traditional processions, registering mourners, limiting loudspeaker use, and placing unlawful constraints on preachers and reciters,” Naqvi said. “Such actions are in clear violation of constitutional rights and religious freedom.”
Referring specifically to Article 20 of the Constitution of Pakistan, he noted that this provision explicitly guarantees the right of every citizen to profess, practice, and propagate their religion.
“Citing vague ‘orders from above’ to justify the restriction of mourning ceremonies is neither legally valid nor religiously acceptable,” he stated, urging the authorities to cease coercive measures such as requiring written undertakings or applying pressure to abandon these fundamental rights.
Naqvi acknowledged the resilience and determination of the Pakistani Shia community, noting that through unified resistance and legal action, many obstacles had already been removed. He said abolished mourning groups had been reinstated and gatherings resumed in areas where they had previously been banned.
“We have always maintained that no permit is required to hold mourning gatherings for Imam Hussain (PBUH), and the government should exempt these religious ceremonies from any form of administrative or security restrictions,” he concluded.
