KOHAT: Members of the Sikh, Hindu and Christian communities have demanded establishment of Benazir Income Support Programme centres in their areas and reservation of admission quota for their youth in the Kohat University of Science and Technology.

They made the demand during a khuli kutchery held here the other day.

They also called for early establishment of skills training centres for the members of the minority communities so that they could earn a respectable living. They said proper lighting system should be installed at the Gora graveyard, at temples and in the cremation area. They also demanded construction of a Shamshanghat, a place for burning bodies of Hindus.

The members of the minority communities also urged the government to fund festivals like Baisakhi, Holi, Christmas, Easter, Good Friday, Guru Nanak Day, etc.

Deputy commissioner Abdul Akram assured them that their demands would be met without delay.

MEETING: The child protection unit has said out of the 297 cases registered 245 have been resolved.

It was revealed during the second meeting of the District Child Protection Committee, Kohat, held here on Saturday.

Child protection officer Azim Abbas, district social welfare officer Amjad Afridi and others were also present at the meeting chaired by deputy commissioner Abdul Akram.

The meeting discussed various issues related to children’s welfare, and several suggestions were presented for curbing the exploitation of children.

The meeting was informed that community-based child protection bodies had also been formed.

On the occasion, the deputy commissioner stressed the need for organising awareness sessions at the union council level by involving the community health workers, schools and religious leaders about child protection.

He said these sessions should be held in schools, hujras and mosques.

Mr Akram emphasised the need for continuing efforts for welfare of children.

Published in Dawn, October 6th, 2024