Pakistan honours minority communities on National Minorities Day

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have reaffirmed their commitment to building a prosperous Pakistan through brotherhood, harmony, and solidarity, in messages issued on National Minorities Day.

In his statement, the President said that the day serves as a reminder of the vision of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, which offers equality and mutual respect to every citizen. President Zardari also acknowledged the services of minority communities in the armed forces, judiciary, civil services, education, and health. He said that efforts will continue for the empowerment, development, and welfare of minority groups.

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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated President Zardari’s commitment, saying that Pakistan strongly supports global efforts to protect minority rights and uphold religious freedom. He cited Quaid-e-Azam’s address of August 11, 1947, as a guiding principle, pledging to provide equal opportunities and enhance the role of minorities in national development.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said the state considers the life, property, and religious freedom of minorities as a constitutional responsibility. He noted that Islam promotes freedom of belief, respect for humanity, and the prohibition of coercion. Minorities are equal partners in national progress and the government prioritises the protection of their lives, property, and places of worship, the interior minister added.

National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq also issued a message marking the occasion. He highlighted the role of minority communities in national development and interfaith harmony. He said that the Constitution guarantees equal rights and religious freedom. He also acknowledged the contributions of minority members of parliament in legislation and public service. He added that the current parliament remains committed to protecting the rights and welfare of minorities.

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah visited the Swami Narayan Das Temple. In his media talk from the temple, the chief minister also recalled Quaid-e-Azam’s emphasis on equal rights for all citizens.

A ceremony organised by the Minority Affairs Department was also held in Karachi, with participation from provincial officials. Despite the highest instance of forced conversions in Sindh, the provincial government pledged support to protecting minority rights.

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CM Murad Ali Shah said that President Zardari had designated Minorities Day in 2009. “Sindh is the land of Sufis and they have always taught the lesson of tolerance,” he said, adding, “There is a lot of intolerance in the neighboring country.”

The chief minister said that Sindh government will stand with the minority community. “Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto took special care of minorities. Benazir Bhutto always made and strengthened laws regarding minorities,” Murad Ali Shah said.