Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Karachi (Agenzia Fides) - A liberal and moderate Muslim scholar who had been accused of blasphemy for a speech during a visit in the United States, was killed yesterday in Karachi. Muhammad Shakil Auj was the dean of Islamic studies at the State University in Karachi. He was known for his stance of openness, dialogue, tolerance, respect for the rights of all. Gunmen on motorcycles attacked the car in which he was driving, hitting him in the head and neck. Auj died on the spot. As sources of Fides report, a week ago another scholar of Islamic religion, Masood Baig, was also killed by unknown assailants. Auj, 54, in recent months had filed complaints with the police for death threats that he had begun to receive, after a speech in the United States in 2012. In particular, four other colleagues, professors at the University of Karachi, had accused him of "blasphemy" due to the allegations contained in that speech. An imam of Karachi issued a "fatwa" against the man, accusing him of blasphemy and calling for his death.
Groups and organizations that protect human rights, including commissions and Christian associations, insist that the law is often exploited and used to avenge personal or professional resentment. As Fides learns, Muhammad Shakil Auj will be remembered tomorrow, September 20, during the convention organized by the "Centre for Peace" in Lahore, founded and directed by the Dominican Fr. James Channan, to celebrate the "International Day of Peace", organized by the UN. The celebration is organized by six major organizations committed to promoting dialogue, peace and harmony, including the Commission of Bishops for Interreligious Dialogue. His Exc. Mgr. Sebastian Shaw, Archbishop of Lahore, and Hafiz Tahir Mehmood Asharfi known Muslim scholar, human rights activist will be present. Together they will launch an appeal to reiterate the urgent need to build peace and harmony in society. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 19/09/2014)
