Pakistan cleric Tariq Jamil apologises for his remarks claiming women caused COVID-19

Pakistan's top cleric Tariq Jamil, who commented that women's dressing sense has brought the wrath of coronavirus upon the country on live television has come out to apologize for the statements. 

Also read: Pakistan's top cleric Tariq Jamil claims women caused COVID-19

The cleric took to Twitter to clarify and apologise for what he said: "Recently I made some comments that I wish to clarify. My aim was to point out that WE are all to blame for our current state. It was meant to be a general remark not targeting any specific men, women, persons or gender, but as a reminder to get closer to what Allah teaches us."

Jamil also said that his sole aim was to remind everyone to be "spiritual" and to stay away from the "desires and the materialistic". He said: My goal was to remind us all to focus on the spiritual and away from our desires and the materialistic. I am the first to admit as I have taught over the years, that there is no excuse for making any hurtful comments about anyone or making anyone feel uncomfortable." 

He apologised for the statements he made: For which I sincerely apologize to anyone who may been inadvertently hurt. I pray that Allah accept our good deeds and forgive our shortcomings.

The cleric blamed the pandemic on the women calling it a "wrongdoing of women". According to Jameel, women who "often scantily" dress were the reason for an outbreak in the country. He condemned the women and said their behaviour has put the country in jeopardy.  These comments were made during the Ehsaas Telethon fundraising event on live television in the presence of Prime Minister Imran Khan.