- The president says the government is committed to protecting the rights of minorities.
- Minorities are a “vital” part of Pakistan's social fabric, says ISPR.
- Government trying to eliminate discrimination against minorities: Naqvi.
As Pakistan marks Minorities Day today, President Asif Ali Zardari has reaffirmed the country's commitment to protecting the religious rights and freedoms of minorities, calling for the promotion of interfaith harmony across the country.
“On this day, we reaffirm our commitment to the promise made by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah on August 11, 1947, to the minorities of the country to protect their religious rights and freedoms,” the president said in a message shared on the occasion.
President Zardari said that Islam also fully recognises and upholds the protection of minority rights.
“I am happy to say that Pakistan has taken a number of measures for the political, social and economic empowerment of minorities,” he added.
He added that the government has allocated a 5% quota for minorities in jobs and separate seats in both houses of Parliament to encourage them to play an effective role in the political and national development of the country.
Furthermore, President Zardari said that steps are being taken to provide financial assistance to poor and deserving people, marriage grants, scholarships to students from minority communities for their education, in addition to provision of funds for repair and maintenance of their places of worship.
He said Pakistan was committed to ensuring the protection of religious, social, political and economic rights of its minorities, adding that every Pakistani has the right to live according to his or her faith, irrespective of religion, caste, colour or creed.
“I urge all segments of society including religious scholars, minority representatives and media to educate people about their rights and work towards promoting interfaith harmony, spirit of love, tolerance, brotherhood and unity to make Pakistan a strong country,” he said.
'Military leaders celebrate the spirit of minorities'
Meanwhile, Pakistan's Armed Forces, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee and Chiefs of Services also extended warm greetings to Pakistan's minority communities on their dedicated day, recognizing their indispensable contributions to the nation's progress, prosperity and rich cultural heritage.
A statement released by Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said this occasion serves as a poignant reminder of the diversity, inclusion and harmonious coexistence that are the hallmarks of our great nation.
“Minority communities are an integral and vital part of our social fabric, and their rights and freedoms are sacrosanct, as enshrined in the Constitution and Islam,” the statement said.
He added that minorities, throughout Pakistan's history, have played an important role in shaping the country's cultural identity, contributing to its development and strengthening its social foundations.
“From the visionary ideals of the Quaid till today, minorities have been an integral part of the nation-building process, and their sacrifices and contributions are deeply appreciated,” the ISPR said.
The statement further stated that the country's armed forces honour the unwavering commitment, dedication and sacrifices of minority communities, recognising their unwavering loyalty to the nation and their invaluable role in fostering a cohesive and pluralistic society.
“We celebrate their spirit and reaffirm our commitment to protecting and promoting their rights, freedoms and well-being,” he added.
'The Government is trying to eliminate discrimination'
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, in his message on the occasion, said that minorities have a key role in the development and prosperity of Pakistan.
The Minister paid tribute to Pakistan’s minority communities for playing a positive role in the country’s development, stressing that their role cannot be ignored.
“The government is trying to eliminate discrimination and promote social harmony,” he added.
— Additional contribution from APP
