During a recent press conference in Islamabad, Federal Minister Khawaja Asif addressed the ongoing propaganda against the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP), denouncing it as outrageous and unfounded. He emphasized that no amount of criticism would suffice to counteract the baseless claims being circulated. Asif noted that, despite numerous clarifications regarding the CJP’s lack of involvement in any controversial decisions, misinformation continues to proliferate. “Everyone knows why the chief justice is being targeted,” he asserted.

Asif highlighted the troubling trend of extremist content spreading across social media, warning that such activities could incite violence in the name of religion. He accused Western entities and those with political agendas of exacerbating the situation. “The state will take action on these issues, and it will not permit anyone to issue fatwas calling for murder,” he declared firmly.

The minister further elaborated on the sustained attacks against the CJP, framing them as part of a broader campaign against those who uphold justice and rights in the country. He insisted that the state would respond decisively to illegal actions and threats against the judiciary, emphasizing that there would be no tolerance for dictation under the guise of religion or personal interests. “Rule of law and justice must prevail in Pakistan,” he stated.

Khawaja Asif also referenced the historical context of these attacks, mentioning that Justice Isa has faced targeting since the Faizabad sit-in. He recalled that a reference was filed against Justice Isa following his constitutional ruling regarding the sit-in, asserting that the state would take comprehensive action against any fatwas issued against the chief justice.

Ahsan Iqbal, also present at the press conference, reinforced the notion that the foundation of the Muslim faith is the finality of Prophethood and condemned any group that attempts to issue murder fatwas. He characterized the recent video released against the CJP as a revolt against the Constitution, underscoring the judiciary’s critical role in maintaining order in the state. Iqbal stressed that no individual has the authority to dictate the faith of others and lamented the shameful treatment of minorities in Pakistan.

Both ministers called for unity against the misuse of religion for political gain, urging scholars to distance themselves from those who incite chaos and hatred.