SC directs to refer the Christian community as ‘Masihi’ instead of ‘Esai’

QUETTA: The Supreme Court on Friday directed authorities to make arrangement in all official records, documents, correspondence etc. to refer the Christian community as “Masihi” instead of “Esai”.

A two-member, bench chaired by Chief Justice Mian saqib Nisar and comprising Justice Ejazul Ahsan passed the directions while hearing plea moved by Samuel Payara, Chairman International Minority Rights Forum regarding use of the word Esai, according to a press release.

During course of proceedings, the Chief Justice observed that it had been complained despite the decision taken by the Council of Islamic Ideology in its 175th meeting held on 28-29th September, 2009 that there was no harm, as per Shariah Injunctions, to refer to the members of Christian community as “Masihi” instead of “Esai”, no steps had been taken by the government in this regard yet.

"Let the recommendations of the Council of Islamic Ideology be implemented in letter and spirit and arrangement should be made in all official records, documents, correspondence etc. to refer to the Christian community as 'Masihi' instead of 'Esai'.

The bench maintained the plead after hearing the arguments placed by the litigants. Subsequently, the Bench disposed of the matter.