All Pakistan Minorities Alliance (APMA) Chairman Shahbaz Bhatti has rejected the recommendation propounded by Council of Islamic Ideology (CII) to utilise sale proceeds of confiscated liquor for the welfare of minority. He said: "The recommendation has insulted the feelings of Christians in Pakistan, as Christianity prohibits addiction of any sort and calls for moral, ethical, and religious restraints."
"It forbids action that may diminish the sanity and wisdom of an individual association of such remarks to Christianity is an insult and direct hit on their sentiments", he added.
The truth is not hidden. The liquor is used by the wealthy class and so-called gentlemen of Pakistan. Most Christians of Pakistan are poor, marginalised, and deprived of even basic necessities. They hardly manage to fulfil their daily needs by working hard, he said.
Shahbaz Bhatti said the CII must clarify the Islamic point of view on liquor, and unmask those who are behind this business and promote it. Minorities do not need merciful treatments and gestures made by the money raised from the sale of confiscated liquor. The APMA chief urged the CII to consult minorities on any matter that directly or indirectly affect them.