LAHORE: The Punjab Assembly held a special session on Sunday to commemorate the National Minority Day and pay tribute to the services and roles of minorities both in the province and the country. Foreign ambassadors and delegations also attended the session.

The session, which commenced after a delay of nearly three hours, was presided over by Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan. Opposition members entered the assembly with slogans, while Opposition Leader Ahmad Khan Bhachar welcomed the ambassadors and foreign delegations.

During the session, the speaker announced a special panel of chairmen consisting of minority members - Sonia Asher, Philbos Christopher, Emmanuel Athar and Ejaz Masih.

Minority member Shakila Javed presented a resolution to honour minorities. The resolution stated that Pakistan’s minorities are serving on political, national and defence fronts. It also highlighted that dedicating August 11 to minorities is a historic step and recognised their contributions to the country. The resolution was unanimously approved.

Opposition member Malik Ahmad Khan Bhachar presented a resolution condemning the Israeli attacks on Gaza and the martyrdom of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. The resolution expressed strong condemnation of Israel’s aggression in Gaza, describing it as barbaric and a grave violation of human rights. The assembly denounced the killing of innocent Palestinians and reiterated Pakistan’s solidarity with the Palestinian people.

The resolution called for an end to Israeli attacks in Palestine and urged the international community to allow aid to reach the injured and sick Palestinians. It also demanded that the UN Security Council play its role in establishing peace in Palestine. The assembly expressed its support for the political and moral stance of the Palestinian people and condemned the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran, labelling it as an act of terrorism. The house also extended condolences to Haniyeh’s family.

During the session, the Punjab Enforcement and Regulation Bill 2024 was presented by the Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, Mujtaba Shujaur Rehman.

Treasury member Samiullah Khan presented a resolution to honour Olympic gold medalist Arshad Nadeem, which was unanimously approved. The resolution noted that Arshad Nadeem is the first Pakistani athlete to win a gold medal, bringing global recognition to Pakistan. It also highlighted that Nadeem hails from a poor background and a small district, underscoring that determination and passion lead to success. The resolution called for him to be declared a national hero.

Many representatives from minority communities, including civil society members, were present in the assembly. Shahid Rehmat, executive director of the Youth Development Foundation, praised the speaker, describing the event as a historic moment for minorities. He said that the assembly was specially decorated for the occasion with pictures of minority heroes, showcasing their vital roles in the province’s history and development. He termed it a commendable step and added that video documentaries highlighting the achievements and contributions of minority communities were also presented.

Published in Dawn, August 12th, 2024