I am a strong believer in transcendental truth of Islam, which in my opinion, encompasses a holistic world-view involving socio-political and moral philosophies. However, in its current state, which is a product of its genetic complexities as well as various martial-laws, political misuse of religion, and complete hijacking of religious discourse by the so-called religious clerisy, Pakistan cannot even move forward towards a transcendental religious ideal which allows men and women to cherish diversity and transform society towards some kind of a moral vision derived from Quran and Sunnah, rather than secular liberal values.
I believe in the power of narrative and the liberty of each individual to extend his or her narrative into the society. I don't think such a liberty is possible unless we pragmatically move towards state's disengagement with religion, thereby disallowing religion to be misused for political concerns
(Aasem Bakshi)
