Sir: In February 1948 the Quaid said: “In any case, Pakistan is not going to be a theocratic state to be ruled by priests with a divine mission. We have many non-Muslims, Hindus, Christians and Parsis but they are all Pakistanis. They will enjoy the same rights and privileges as any other citizens and will play their rightful part in the affairs of Pakistan.” Unfortunately, this is not being practiced in our country. A culture of harmony, respect and love is essential for a peaceful coexistence. Today Pakistan is rife with examples where minorities have been brutally suppressed, tortured and at times killed. Even the most peaceful community, the Kalash in Chitral, had been threatened. The Holy Prophet (PBUH) and the righteous caliphs never practiced such things during their reign. Such things are a great disservice to Islam. Burning temples and houses, killing innocent people and targeting children and women are unacceptable, un-Islamic and irrational. Mahrukh Ashraf Via Email