Host Narendra Modi floors Pakistani scholar

Host Narendra Modi floors Pakistani scholar

VADODARA: Pakistani Islamic scholar Tahir-ul-Qadri on his first visit to Gujarat thanked chief minister Narendra Modi for the security arrangements provided to him.

Qadri, known for his strong views against terrorism and extremism, however, refused to comment on 2002 communal riots. Qadri has been in Gujarat since Friday night to lay foundation stone of India headquarters of Minhaj-ul-Quran International in Karjan on Saturday evening.

Speaking to reporters ahead of the function in Karjan, he said he did not have knowledge of India's provincial states and its political leaders.

"But it is my first visit to Gujarat and special Z-plus security arrangements have been made by the state. I thank the CM for this," he said. On repeated questions about the 2002 communal riots, Qadri insisted he did not come to Gujarat to speak about specific incidents, but termed them as unfortunate.

"My talk in letter and spirit is just for peace and harmony. Violence at any place, killing of mankind should be condemned, but I de-link it with the events (Godhra riots) you are referring to," he said. He also drew parallels between Quran and Bhagwad Gita.

Qadri struck a local chord immediately. " Tamam Gujarati mate dua karu chu. Khushal raho, hali mali ne raho. (I am praying for all Gujaratis. Live in prosperity and live in harmony)," he said.

Qadri said nobody can rectify whatever has happened in the past. "Nobody can regenerate or recreate past, but efforts should be made to prevent such events in future. The only way is to look for a better future, create an atmosphere of togetherness for which mutual tolerance is necessary," he said, stressing that his efforts are for inter-faith, inter-cultural harmony at global level. Host Narendra Modi floors Pakistani scholar.

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