Addressing a public gathering in Kasur, Punjab, Maulana Fazlur Rehman made critical comments about the country’s institutions and discussed the role of the military, including remarks about soldiers’ sacrifices that drew widespread criticism.

Federal ministers and politicians have since condemned his statements and expressed disappointment.

Khawaja Asif Criticizes Remarks on Soldiers’ Sacrifices

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said that Maulana Fazlur Rehman is an experienced politician and a respected religious scholar, therefore greater responsibility is expected from him regarding his choice of words.

He said linking the sacrifices of soldiers with salaries was unfair and hurtful for the families of martyrs.

“No one sacrifices their life merely for a salary; behind such sacrifices are ideology, faith, and love for the country,” Khawaja Asif said.

Ahsan Iqbal Calls Statement Against Islamic and Moral Values

Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal also criticized the remarks, saying they went against Islamic teachings and moral values.

In a social media post, he said that his relationship with Maulana Fazlur Rehman has always been based on respect, but the statement gave the impression that the value of martyrs’ sacrifices was being undermined.

Ahsan Iqbal said that the reason people can sit peacefully in mosques, seminaries, and public gatherings is because soldiers stand guard on the borders.

Calls for Apology From Government Leaders

Minister of State for Overseas Pakistanis Awn Chaudhry demanded that Maulana Fazlur Rehman apologize to the nation and the families of martyrs.

He said martyrdom is not connected to salary but is achieved through patriotism and faith.

Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry also expressed concern, asking whether the life of any martyr could ever have a price.

He emphasized the need for a united national narrative against terrorism.

Railways Minister of State Hanif Abbasi also criticized the remarks, saying the nation was hurt by the statement and that the Pakistan Army has remained engaged in fighting for the past 35 years.

Punjab Assembly Speaker Reacts

Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan strongly criticized the remarks, saying:

“Choose your words carefully. This army is the pride of our nation, and every soldier sacrifices their life while defending the country against enemies.”

Prime Minister’s Adviser on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah also responded indirectly, saying martyrdom is a believer’s purpose and a reality beyond the understanding of worldly and salary-focused people.

Pakistan Stability Party spokesperson Fayyaz-ul-Hassan Chohan also said that the armed forces do not sacrifice lives for salaries but for the country, adding that the statement hurt the families of martyrs.

Fawad Chaudhry Defends Serious Consideration of Remarks

Former federal minister Fawad Chaudhry, however, presented a different view, saying Maulana Fazlur Rehman is a serious and wise political figure and his comments regarding the situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa should be taken seriously.

During his speech, Maulana Fazlur Rehman said that every institution has its own domain of authority. He also criticized the worsening law and order situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan and made remarks regarding military personnel killed in the line of duty.