Prominent religious scholar Sheikh Assim Al Hakeem has strongly denounced the recent mob lynching incident in Swat, emphasizing that such acts blatantly violate Islamic principles. He asserts that according to Islamic teachings, the authority to punish any wrongdoing lies exclusively with legitimate rulers or governments.
Responding to inquiries on social media platform ‘X’, Sheikh Assim Al Hakeem unequivocally stated his position regarding the horrific incident where a tourist was brutally attacked and killed by a mob on accusations of desecrating the Holy Quran.
He emphasized that such actions are strictly prohibited and those who commit them are considered murderers, who should face justice under the governance of Islamic law. He specified that only the Muslim ruler, following due process and upon the demand of the victim’s heirs, has the authority to order an execution as per the principle of “life for a life.”
Sheikh Assim Al Hakeem expressed deep concern over the barbarity of such acts, labeling them as indicative of a lawless state akin to a jungle. He criticized the manipulation of religious and political sentiments to incite violence, condemning individuals who exploit their followers for personal gain and encourage vigilantism. He emphasized that true scholars do not incite unlawful actions but instead uphold the principles of justice and order.
The incident in Swat, where the tourist from Punjab was horrifically tortured, set on fire, and subjected to mob violence, has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation both locally and internationally.
