Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid homage to the significant contributions of religious minorities in Pakistan’s founding, defense, and development during a ceremony at the Prime Minister’s Office marking National Minorities Day. He emphasized the importance of unity among all citizens, regardless of faith, to drive the nation toward progress and prosperity.
Addressing the gathering, the prime minister underscored that religious minorities have been integral partners alongside Muslims throughout Pakistan’s struggle for independence and its subsequent growth. He reiterated that the Constitution guarantees equal rights to all citizens, reflecting the vision articulated by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in his historic August 11 address.
Shehbaz Sharif stressed that Pakistanis must collaborate closely to achieve national development, noting that August 11 is observed annually as National Minorities Day to honor the Christians, Hindus, Sikhs, Parsis, and other minority communities who have long been respected in the country.
Highlighting their historical role, the prime minister acknowledged the minorities’ constructive participation in the Pakistan Movement and recognized their contributions as an essential part of the nation’s heritage.
He particularly praised the Christian community for its remarkable role in education, recalling his own early schooling in Christian institutions and the community’s broader impact on Pakistan’s educational landscape.
Shehbaz also paid tribute to notable minority figures such as Cecil Chaudhry, Justice A.R. Cornelius, Jogendra Nath Mandal, S.L. Gibbs, and S.P. Singha, acknowledging their valuable services in various fields including national defense and development. He remembered their sacrifices in wars and in combating terrorism as unforgettable.
In a call for collective effort, the prime minister emphasized equipping young Pakistanis with modern knowledge and skills to elevate the country’s global standing, urging progress aligned with Pakistan’s founding principles to secure its rightful place among nations.
Meanwhile, Shehbaz addressed the recently signed defense agreement between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey in Makkah, clarifying that the pact is not aimed against any nation but seeks to foster peace, development, and regional stability.
During the event, the prime minister presented awards to minority community members in recognition of their exceptional service to the country.
Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf highlighted the full protection and welfare measures extended to minorities, including educational scholarships, financial aid, and enhanced security for their places of worship. He noted that ten religious festivals of minority communities are officially observed, reflecting government commitment to their rights as envisioned by Quaid-e-Azam.
Minister of State for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Kheal Das Kohistani expressed pride in the prime minister’s participation and affirmed that Pakistan belongs to all its citizens. He pointed out legislative advances such as the Sikh Marriage Act and Hindu Marriage Act, with ongoing work on Christian marriage laws, underscoring the religious freedom and protections minorities enjoy.
Kohistani also commended the armed forces for defending the nation and highlighted Pakistan’s role in promoting interfaith harmony internationally.
Senator Khalil Tahir Sindhu welcomed the National Commission for Minorities Act as a positive development for safeguarding minority rights, reiterating their continuous contributions to Pakistan’s growth.
The ceremony was attended by federal ministers, parliamentarians, and prominent representatives from various minority communities nationwide, reflecting a broad commitment to inclusivity and recognition.
