ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s military spokesperson, Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, on Sunday said only the state has the authority to declare jihad and no individual or group has the right to do so.
Speaking during an interaction with representatives from various religious and social communities in Karachi, the Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) stressed the importance of national unity and equality among all citizens, regardless of faith or ethnicity.
The DG ISPR added that India is supporting terrorism in Pakistan, asserting that the Pakistan Army is responding with modern warfare strategies and national resolve.
Director General Inter-Services Public Relations, Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry says followers of all religions are equal citizens in #Pakistan and they enjoy all constitutional rights@OfficialDGISPR #RadioPakistan #News https://t.co/eQSe5bWQrL pic.twitter.com/kkFOIRJGrA
— Radio Pakistan (@RadioPakistan) June 22, 2025
“Pakistan belongs to all its citizens equally, and the Constitution guarantees full rights to followers of all religions. National harmony thrives on equality and mutual respect,” he said.
The military spokesperson said that all Pakistanis are equal and any kind of racial or linguistic hatred is ignorance. He said no power can defeat us if we remain united.
“The prerogative of declaring jihad lies only with the state. No individual or group is authorised to make such declarations,” Lt Gen Sharif stated.
He emphasised that promoting peace and unity across all segments of society was essential to counter internal and external threats.
During the meeting, community leaders warmly welcomed the military spokesperson, appreciated the military’s outreach efforts, and expressed a desire for such inclusive engagements to continue in the future.
