World Tolerance Day: Youth urged to promote tolerant behavior in society

PESHAWAR: The panelists at a monthly study circle on Sunday called for promoting the cause of tolerance, fostering mutual respect and positive attitude to build a tolerant society.

The monthly study circle was arranged under the aegis of Peshawarians Literary Society (PLS) at a local college to mark the World Tolerance Day with an objective to foster spirit of respect for linguistic and cultural diversity.

Prof Shamsuddin Khan while chairing the event said that unfortunately youth were overpowered by their emotions, which led them to get involved in illegal and immoral activities.

Other panelists were of the view that intolerance and negativity led to several anti-societal activities plaguing the society by extremism and militancy. “Most youth lose their patience and resort to taking extreme steps including violent behavior and drug abuse,” a panelist opined.

He added that youth were required to display a positive attitude for respecting faiths, practices, cultural and traditions of others, arguing it would help them cement better ties with parents, friends, and relatives towards strong social cohesion.

“Youth of today are violent, unruly and stubborn. The gap between parents and children is widening with every passing day. It is imperative for parents, civil society members, teachers, and religious scholars to bridge this gap and raise awareness among youth to engage in positive activities,” he urged.

Tausif Ahmad Khan, president of PLS, said that young students should turn to reading books, especially the life history of the holy Prophet (peace be upon him) and should learn lessons from his behaviour towards children, elders and others.

“Our holy Prophet always stressed on adopting a tolerant behavior even with non-believers to make up a just society,” he added.

Muhammad Asif, senior vice president of PLS, pointed out parents and teachers should create platforms for youth so that they could bring out their views and observations. He said that literary and sports activities should be enhanced at all levels.

“Youth seem to have lost their patience, and their level of tolerance has been reduced over the years owing to over use of social media and the gap created between them and their parents and elders. There is an uptick in incidents of social evils in which youth at the most are found to be the main culprits,” he noted.

Ihtisham Khan while moderating the event said youth should learn how to respect the perspective of others in a friendly and polite manner and should avoid being violent and stubborn. Bullying and taunting others breed hatred and mistrust, he added.