PMS 2017 Solved Islamiat Past Papers | Rights of Non-Muslims in the Islamic State
The following question of PMS Islamiat 2017 is solved by Miss Ayesha Irfan, the highest scorer in CSS Islamiat. Moreover, the question is attempted using the same pattern taught by Sir Syed Kazim Ali to his students, who have scored the highest marks in compulsory subjects for years. This solved past paper question is uploaded to help aspirants understand how to crack a topic or question, write relevantly, what coherence is, and how to include and connect ideas, opinions, and suggestions to score the maximum.
Question Breakdown
About this specific question, the examiner inquired how the Islamic State protected the rights of non-Muslims and gave an analysis of the protection of non-Muslim rights enshrined in the constitutions of Pakistan. The question is addressed in two parts. The first is an outline, which is broken down into different parts. Moving further, the introduction is given, followed by the Islamic perspectives of non-Muslim rights, principles and mechanisms for the protection of non-Muslims in an Islamic state, constitutional safeguards for non-Muslims in Pakistan and conclusion.
Outline
1-Introduction
2- An overview of the rights of non-Muslims in Islam
3- How does Islam guarantee rights for non-Muslims more than any other religion?
- ✓Right to freedom of religion
- ✓Right to Equality
- ✓Right to life and dignity
- ✓Right to freedom of speech
- ✓Right to Justice
- ✓Right to Basic Necessities of Life
4-Shadowing light on Pakistan’s constitutional safeguards for non-Muslims
- ✓Declaring preamble and objective Resolution
- ✓Protecting fundamental rights (Articles 20 and 25)
- ✓Promoting social justice and non-discrimination (articles 26-27)
- ✓Protecting the religious institutions
- ✓Preserving cultural heritage (Article 28)
5-Critical Analysis
6-Conclusion
Answer to the Question
Introduction
Islam promotes peace, diversity, and equality. It considered the rights of non-Muslims in Islamic states in addition to safeguarding the rights of Muslims. However, Islam grants non-Muslims more privileges than any other religion, especially in nations with a majority of Muslims. They are free from religious pressure to live their lives as they see fit, practice their faith, and manage their personal and family affairs according to their beliefs. This exemplifies the better Islamic values of unity and tolerance while defending their rights. However, Pakistan’s Constitution is based on these Islamic precepts and explicitly protects non-Muslims’ rights to social equality, religious freedom, dignity, and the defence of fundamental rights. As a result, Islamic nations like Pakistan promote peaceful coexistence between various cultures by striking a balance between Islamic principles and contemporary constitutionalism.
Those who do not judge by what God has sent down are the disbelievers (kafirun). 5:44
An overview of the rights of non-Muslims in Islam
The Qur’an and Hadith affirm that Islam encourages world peace and prosperity. Its goal is the good of all people. The objective is to create social environments that enable people to be their best selves. This is addressed not just to Muslims but also to all of humanity in the Quran. As a result, the socioeconomic circumstances under the Islamic State are the same for both Muslims and non-Muslims. Regardless of race or creed, Islam, however, grants and upholds everyone’s right to life and honour. The Holy Qur’an forbids anyone who kills another person without a valid reason. “Had there not been Allah’s repelling some people by others. Certainly there would have been pulled down cloisters and churches and synagogues and the mosques in which Allah’s name is much remembered” (Surah Al-Hajj, verse 40). In His creation, Allah does not condone wickedness or injustice. Furthermore, in an Islamic state, non-Muslims are allowed to follow their own religion.
How does Islam guarantee rights for non-Muslims more than any other religion?
- Right to freedom of religion
Islam has clearly and categorically forbidden the primitive practice of capturing a man to convert him to Islam forcefully. “There is no compulsion in Deen” refers to a well-known verse in the Quran (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:256). Furthermore, It has been ordained by God in the Holy Quran, “Do not argue with the people of the Book unless it is in the politest manner” (29:46). For instance When an elderly Christian woman refused the caliph Umar’s invitation to convert to Islam, he expressed remorse and said, “I have not intended to compel her, as I know that there must be no compulsion in religion”. Those who practice other religions are likewise subject to this order, which is not exclusive to the people of the Scriptures. Given that people will have different religious beliefs and will not be coerced to follow Islam, people of all faiths can freely practice their religion, carry out their rituals, and worship as they see fit in an Islamic state without worrying about discrimination or persecution.
- Right to Equality
Going down the ladder, Islam has given every man as a human being the fundamental and priceless right to equality before the law. The Holy Quran established, “Do not let your hatred of a people incite you to aggression” (5:2). “And do not let ill-will towards any folk incite you so that you swerve from dealing justly. Be just; that is nearest to heedfulness” (5:8). This emphasizes the need of Muslims being just with ordinary people as well as their adversaries. To ensure that non-Muslims’ opinions are heard and their concerns are taken into consideration, Islamic governance also places a strong emphasis on their representation and consultation.
- Right to life and dignity
The right to life and respect for human life are the most fundamental. The Holy Quran establishes that whoever kills a human being without (any reason like) manslaughter or corruption on earth, it is as though he had killed all humanity… (5:32). Not only this, the Quran also signifies the dignity of man by giving them the right to life. According to the Prophet, may God bless him, murder is the second-greatest sin after polytheism(Shirk). Further, he said, “The greatest sins are to associate something with God and to kill human beings.” The injunction covers everyone, and taking a human life is prohibited in and of itself. Therefore, the ban on slander, defamation, and other types of harm protects the honour, dignity, and property of non-Muslims in an Islamic state.
“And whoever saves a life, it is as though he
had saved the lives of all mankind” (5:32).
- Right to freedom of speech
As long as it is applied to promote virtue and truth rather than evil and wickedness, Islam provides all members of the Islamic State the freedom to think and speak as they like.
The Prophet has said: “If any one of you comes across an evil, he should try to stop it with his hand (using force); if he is not in a position to stop it with his hand, then he should try to stop it using his tongue (meaning he should speak against it). If he cannot even use his tongue, he should at least condemn it in his heart. This is the weakest degree of faith” (Muslim). Thus, Islam provides equality in all spheres of life.
- Right to Justice
Moreover, Muslims are entitled to complete and utter equality under the law. According to Muslims, the Sunnah and the Holy Quran make it clear that every Muslim has the same rights and obligations, “The believers are brothers (to each other)” (49:10). According to hadith, those who accept the Oneness of God, believe in the Prophethood of His Messenger, abandon primitive prejudices, and join the Muslim community and brotherhood have “the same rights and obligations as other Muslims” (al-Bukhari; al-Nisa’i). As a result, new converts to Islam are treated equally with long-time adherents of the faith.
- Right to Basic Necessities of Life
Moving down to the ladder, Islam has recognized the right of the needy people that help and assistance will be provided for them. “And in their wealth there is acknowledged right for the needy and the destitute” (51:19). The Prophet has clearly instructed in this respect that: “It will be taken from their rich and given to those in the community in need” (al-Bukhari and Muslim). In addition to this, it has also been declared that the Islamic State should support those who have nobody to support them. The Prophet has said: “The Head of State is the guardian of him, who has nobody to support him” (Abu Dawud, al-Tirmidhi). All of this indicates that Islam is the only religion that grants non-Muslims similar rights.
Explaining Pakistan’s constitutional safeguards for non-Muslims
- Announcing the beginning and the impartial Resolution for minorities
The preamble and Objectives Resolution of the Pakistani constitution places special emphasis on the preservation of minorities and their rights, demonstrating inclusion, which is the cornerstone of the country’s constitutional structure. “Adequate provisions shall be made for the minorities to profess and practice their religion and develop their culture freely,” the Resolution’s objectives declare. This declaration affirms the State’s commitment to providing minorities with the freedom to live and practice their faith without encountering prejudice. This constitutional Resolution confirmed the creation of an Islamic-based pluralistic society in Pakistan. By upholding these principles, equality and dignity can be ensured for all citizens, including non-Muslims.
- Preserving non-Muslims’ fundamental rights
The fundamental rights of freedom and equality form the cornerstone of any democratic society. The freedom to proclaim, practice, and propagate one’s religion is protected under Article 20 of the Pakistani Constitution. At the same time, Article 25 upholds equality before the law and prohibits discrimination based on faith. Minorities also have the right to manage their religious organizations and maintain their traditions under Article 20. These provisions in Pakistan’s constitution provide non-Muslims equal rights in public life and safeguard their personal beliefs. Pakistan is dedicated to a society where all religions coexist in equality and freedom.
- Encouraging social Justice and a society free from discrimination
Equality in public spaces and opportunities promotes a fair and united society. Meanwhile, the Constitution of Pakistan forbids discrimination against any person on the grounds of race, sex, caste, or religion under Articles 26 and 27. For instance, Article 27 prohibits discrimination in governmental employment, whereas Article 26 guarantees equal access to public areas and services. These articles demonstrate that non-Muslims cannot be denied access to public services, career chances, or education, and also the government’s responsibility to promote inclusivity. Thus, Pakistan seeks to create a society where each individual feels appreciated and respected by ensuring social Justice and non-discrimination.
- Defending non-Muslims’ places of worship
The Islamic State bears the brunt of ensuring the safety of its non-Muslim residents’ places of worship and religious establishments. Similar protections for minority religious institutions are found in Pakistan’s Constitution, which ensures that minorities are allowed to profess their faith and that places of worship be protected against sacrilege or intrusion. Inter-communal trust has been reinforced by the State’s historical preservation of temples, churches, and gurdwaras or synagogues, which demonstrates its commitment to preserving religious peace. In summary, Pakistan upholds these non-Muslim institutions in order to foster an environment of mutual tolerance and collaboration.
- Conserving non-Muslim communities’ cultural heritage
Cultural preservation is crucial to maintaining societal diversity, and for this reason, minorities have the right to safeguard their heritage, language, and culture under Article 28 of the Pakistani Constitution, which addresses “Preservation of Language, Script, and Culture.” The State’s commitment to cultural tolerance is demonstrated by this privilege, which ensures that many non-Muslim minorities, including Sikhs, Christians, and Hindus, can remember and pass on their traditions to future generations. As a result, by recognizing these rights, Pakistan allows minorities to contribute to its multicultural identity, strengthening the nation’s collective legacy.
Critical Analysis
Islam provides to non-muslims their due rights. Moreover, Islam grants non-Muslims rights, such as the freedom to practice their religion and protection from harm. Islam is, without a doubt, a religion of equality and peace. It grants non-Muslims and Muslims alike the same privileges. In Muslim spheres, however, non-Muslims had cultural and legal legitimacy. Religious and ethnic minorities face discrimination in many areas of Pakistan. The Pakistani government has designated 5% of government employment for minorities, as well as seats in the Senate, National Assembly, and Provincial Assembly. Nonetheless, minorities endure a high risk of death and injury. For instance, A Pakistani Christian convicted of blasphemy and beaten by a mob in 2024 died from his injuries. Although Minorities in Pakistan are granted all their rights, their implementation requires stringent oversight.
Conclusion
To conclude, the Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasize the protection of non-Muslim rights and uphold the values of Justice, equality, and freedom, which form the foundation of the Islamic State’s commitment to defending the rights of non-Muslims. Pakistan, as an Islamic State, protects the fundamental rights of non-Muslims, and these rights are also clearly enshrined in the State’s constitution. Moreover, these clauses preserve the dignity of every citizen, irrespective of their religious affiliations, foster interfaith Harmony, guarantee security, and promote peaceful coexistence between various communities by striking a balance between Islamic teachings and contemporary constitutionalism that reflects the essence of Islam.
CSS Solved Past Papers’ Essays
Looking for the last ten years of CSS and PMS Solved Essays and want to know how Sir Kazim’s students write and score the highest marks in the essays’ papers? Then, click on the CSS Solved Essays to start reading them.
CSS Solved Essays
CSS Solved General Science & Ability Past Papers
Want to read the last ten years’ General Science & Ability Solved Past Papers to learn how to attempt them and to score high? Let’s click on the link below to read them all freely. All past papers have been solved by Pakistan’s top CSS GSA coach having the highest score of their students.
General Science & Ability Solved Past Papers
