• Praises their contributions in times of war and peace
• Urges ulema to promote forbearance, interfaith harmony
• Calls out world’s ‘muted response’ to Israeli barbarism
• Bilawal pledges to foster minorities’ empowerment

ISLAMABAD: While commending the significant contribution of minorities in the country’s progress and prosperity, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday reiterated the government’s resolve to protect their rights.

The premier made these remarks while addressing a ceremony held at the PML-N headquarters in Lahore and in a message issued by the PM Office Media Wing, Islamabad, to mark the Minorities Day.

He emphasised the significance of Aug 11, 1947 — the date that commemorates Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah’s historic speech in the Constituent Assembly, advocating equal rights for all citizens, irrespective of their religion.

Felicitating the minority communities, PM Shehbaz said they were committed to their welfare, adding that the government was taking practical steps in this regard. Allocation of special seats, besides employment opportunities on merit for the minorities spoke volumes for provision of equal opportunities to all, he said, adding that minorities’ representation in all institutions were being appreciated.

He said the minority communities had played a vital role during the Pakistan Movement and highlighted the contributions of Christian, Hindu, Sikh, and Parsi communities to various sectors, including education, defence, trade, and justice.

The PM said Mr Jinnah in his speech had announced complete religious freedom to minorities, adding that under the Quaid’s vision August 11, is observed as a day to acknowledge minorities’ contributions.

He said the government highly appreciated the role of minority people who were rendering services in different walks of life. They had been in the forefront of the country’s defence and laid down their lives for the protection of the motherland, he added.

He asked them to play their role for national progress by displaying unity in their ranks.

The PM underlined that under Islamic teachings, the rights of minorities had been emphasised, adding that tolerance, mutual respect and human rights’ protection without any discrimination were the identity of an Islamic society.

He also urged ulema and public to promote forbearance, tolerance, peace and interfaith harmony among people and work with all the institutions in this regard.

In his speech at Lahore, the premier paid tribute to minority figures who served the nat­ion in times of war and peace, citing examples of Cecil Chaudhry and Justice Cornelius.

Acknowledging the challenges faced by minorities, he stressed the need for improving efforts by both federal and provincial governments to ensure their protection.

He reassured the minority communities that the government is committed to improving their quality of life.

He reiterated PML-N’s longstanding support for minority rights, stating that the party under the leadership of Nawaz Sharif had always advocated for the inclusion and protection of minorities.

Besides, PM Shehbaz condemned the ongoing violence in Gaza, denouncing the atrocities committed by the Israeli government under Prime Minister Netanyahu.

He criticised the global community’s muted response to these acts, calling it a grave failure of international organisations tasked with maintaining global peace.

Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar and Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Chaudhry Salik Hussain also spoke.

PPP reaffirms support

Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, the PPP chairman, reaffirmed his “unwavering commitment” to safeguarding the rights and fostering the development and empowerment of minorities in Pakistan, adds APP.

He emphasised that the PPP would never compromise on these core principles.

The former foreign minister underscored his party’s long-standing dedication to championing the minorities’ rights.

He highlighted that the consensus Constitution of 1973, a testament to the political vision of PPP’s founding chairman Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, guaranteed equal rights, religious freedoms and protections for all citizens of Pakistan.

“My mother, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, envisioned a Pakistan where people of all faiths can coexist in harmony and with dignity,” he added.

Mr Bhutto-Zardari noted that the observance of National Minorities Day was instituted by President Asif Ali Zardari during his first tenure, with the aim of recognising the vital role of minorities in the nation’s fabric and promoting tolerance and harmony in society.

“Our nation’s diversity is our greatest strength, and it is our collective duty to ensure that every citizen, irrespective of their faith or background, enjoys equal rights and opportunities,” he said in a statement issued from Karachi.

He urged all Pakistanis to unite in the fight against discrimination and intolerance.

“As we observe National Minorities Day, let us renew our pledge to build a Pakistan that truly embodies the principles of justice, equality, and tolerance. Together, we can create a nation where every individual, regardless of religion or ethnicity, has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to our country’s prosperity,” he said.

Published in Dawn, August 12th, 2024