Pakistan Reaffirms Commitment to Minority Rights on National Minorities Day
On National Minorities Day, Pakistan’s leadership pledged to protect minority rights, promote interfaith harmony, and ensure equal participation of all citizens in national life.
Pakistan on Sunday marked National Minorities Day with political and government leaders reaffirming their commitment to safeguard the rights, freedoms, and dignity of non-Muslim citizens, in line with the vision of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
Leaders Highlight Quaid-e-Azam’s Vision
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described the protection of minority rights in Pakistan as both a constitutional duty and a religious obligation. Referring to Jinnah’s historic August 11, 1947 speech, he called it an “ideological guarantee” for a secure future for minority communities. The Prime Minister praised minority citizens who sacrificed for the nation’s defense and pledged to work for national progress without discrimination.
President Asif Ali Zardari said the day serves as a reminder of the constitutional promise of equality for all citizens. He noted that since the day was formally declared in 2009, Pakistan has taken significant steps for minority welfare and empowerment, and will continue to promote interfaith harmony.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi echoed these sentiments, calling minorities “equal heirs of the state” and “integral to national development.” He stressed that safeguarding their lives, property, places of worship, and ensuring their full participation in national life are top state priorities.
Acknowledging Contributions and Initiatives
Senate Chairman Syed Yousuf Raza Gillani praised minorities’ contributions to Pakistan’s stability and development, pledging that the Senate will work to uphold their rights. PPP Vice President Senator Sherry Rehman highlighted that National Minorities Day was initiated by President Zardari in 2009 and underscored that protecting minority rights is a shared responsibility between the state and society.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz described minorities as the “beauty and crown” of Pakistani society. She detailed provincial initiatives such as the Minority Card scheme offering quarterly stipends to thousands of families, legal recognition of Sikh and Hindu marriage acts, funding for the restoration of religious sites, and scholarships for minority students. She also announced that Baisakhi, Holi, Diwali, Christmas, and Easter will now be officially celebrated in Punjab.
State Efforts for Protection and Harmony
Highlighting Pakistan’s record, officials pointed to the Kartarpur Corridor and Nankana Sahib remaining open even during times of conflict as proof of the country’s commitment to peace and interfaith harmony. The government has prioritized renovating places of worship, securing religious events, and protecting the lives and property of minorities.
“Minorities are equal partners in the state, and there will be no compromise on their protection, freedom, and participation,” said Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.
Since 2009, National Minorities Day has been observed annually on August 11, honoring the contributions of non-Muslim citizens and reaffirming Pakistan’s pledge to uphold equality, justice, and tolerance for all.
