Which One Has Priority; Society or Individual’s Rights?
The street is needed given the needs of the region and the growing number of vehicles. However, in order for construction of a street, some homes ought to be destroyed.
Those whose houses are demolished will inevitably go through difficulties and problems.
But the trouble that a few people go through should not prevent the government to ignore the needs, welfare and interests of a society and a nation.
In Islam there is great emphasis laid on the rights of each individual, but more importance is attached to the rights of society.
The Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (AS), tells Malik al-Ashtar: “They hoard goods for profiteering and fix high prices for goods. This is a source of harm to the people and a blot on the officers in charge. Stop people from hoarding, because the Messenger of Allah (S) has prohibited it. The sale should be smooth, with correct weights and prices, not harmful to either party, the seller or the purchaser; whoever commits hoarding after you prohibit it, give him exemplary but not excessive punishment.” (Letter 53 of Nahj al-Balagha)
Imam (AS) also tells him that in running the affairs of the government, attention should be paid to ensuring the welfare and contentment of the public even if some individuals may feel displeased.
