Suicide bombing in Quetta

Sectarianism is an undoubted expression of religious bigotry. The sad thing is, when bigotry gets an upper hand in relation to religion, not only does it cost innocent lives, but also religion some of its good name. That's something the extremists do not seem to grasp. They should realise that the religion or sect they are fighting for does not support violence, killing or any extreme actions. Loss of innocent lives can never bring the success they want to achieve. We have always condemned such cowardly acts of violence; we will continue to do so.

The outcome of this sort of majoritarian assertion of religion is neither democratic nor religious. That is the lesson for Muslims of all sects and countries to draw here. They should rise above sectarianism, because it is a double-edged sword harbour as it does both orthodoxy and militancy. Abuse of religion by anyone in any manner is unacceptable; religion should remain a powerful influence for peace in every society.

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