THIS is in response to Salman Munir’s letter ‘Imran Khan on Islamic welfare state’ (July 4). Firstly, the writer should clear his perceptions over what exactly an Islamic welfare state is. An Islamic welfare state is not what is portrayed by the extremists, because every religion teaches patience and tolerance.

An Islamic welfare state is where people are given equal rights, regardless of their caste, colour or creed. Freedom of practising religion is yet another basic aspect of an Islamic welfare state. Non-Muslim communities under Muslim rule are to be protected by the Dhimmi laws, which guarantee them rights to worship and follow their religious laws.

It is the responsibility of the state to protect the life, property and honour of its citizens. An Islamic welfare state is to be run on the principles of justice and equality and be completely away from class discrimination.

Islamic economics lies on two primary goals: to combat poverty, and provide for a just and equitable distribution of wealth.

Almost all western countries have derived their structure from the principles of an Islamic welfare state. So if Imran Khan vows to make Pakistan an Islamic welfare state, what’s wrong with that? We all dream for Pakistan to become a state where justice is given priority; a place where everyone is treated equally. Why not achieve this dream through an ‘Islamic’ welfare state?

ZUHA SOHAIL Karachi