KATHMNADU, July 11: Religious leaders from the Hindu, Buddhist, Christian, Sikh and Muslim communities were unanimous in commending secularism in the country on Saturday. Stating that they now feel more equal in the country, the leaders said that secularism ensures religious harmony.
They held discussions over the topic of secularism during the Peace Symposium 2016 meeting organized by the Ahmadiyya community.
“Nepal witnesses many religion practices,” Assistant Minister for the Ministry of Federal Affairs and Local Development, Resham Bahadur Lama, said. “Roles of the diverse religious practices have been making Nepalese people very open minded and adaptable to every positive change in our society.”
“We, more than following religious practice, adhere to its meaning because we understand that whatever the religion is, it is a mission to spread peace and humanity.” Lama added.
Is Secularism Applicable in Nepal?
Speaking at the event, leaders from various religious communities lauded Nepal's role in global peace.
Leaders from the Ahmadiyya community also stressed on the misunderstandings created about their Muslim faith due to the recent terrorist attacks in the world.
“Our community believes that there are not one but many prophets in the world spreading the message of peace,” said the president of Ahmadiyya community of Nepal.
“Islam basically believes in promoting peace and humanity. So those who choose violence instead of peace are not real Muslims although they portray themselves as one.”
Meanwhile, Dr Abdul Alim, regional social policy advisor for UNICEF South Asia, expressed his concerns over the increasing influence of nuclear weapons.
“The amount of nuclear power that we have in the world can destroy our world 28 times,” said Dr Alim. “Isn't this happening so because humans have been following the path of injustice and hatred over love, peace and justice?” he questioned.
Dr Alim said that Ahmadiyya community organized the conference to bring all the people from diverse community to promote love and peace over violence to spread peace to prevent the world from having another devastating war.
“The world did not have war because of religion. People chose war because of hatred, egoism and misunderstanding,” added Dr Alim. “We can erase such negativities when we opt for peace, equality and justice. So love all and hate none.”
