Political leaders across Pakistan observed National Minorities Day on Monday, pledging to protect the rights of non-Muslim citizens and to follow the vision of the country’s founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah. The day, marked every year on August 11, honours the contributions of minorities to the nation’s progress and reaffirms their constitutional, social, and economic rights.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said safeguarding minority rights is both a constitutional responsibility and a religious duty. Referring to Jinnah’s historic speech of August 11, 1947, he called it an ideological guarantee for a secure future for all communities. He praised minority members who have sacrificed their lives for Pakistan’s defence and promised to work for national progress without discrimination.
President Asif Ali Zardari said the day reminds the nation of Jinnah’s vision and the constitutional guarantee of equality regardless of religion, caste, or ethnicity. He noted that Pakistan has taken various steps for minority welfare since the day it was officially declared in 2009, and vowed to continue promoting interfaith harmony.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said Pakistan’s foundation is built on Islamic principles of justice, equality, and tolerance. He stressed the safety of minorities, protection of their worship places, and their full participation in national life as state priorities.
Senate Chairman Syed Yousuf Raza Gillani acknowledged the role of minorities in Pakistan’s development and stability, promising that the upper house would continue to safeguard their rights.
Pakistan Peoples Party Vice President Senator Sherry Rehman recalled that National Minorities Day was introduced by President Zardari in 2009, and said it is the duty of both the state and citizens to protect minority rights.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz called minorities the “beauty and crown” of society. She highlighted initiatives such as the Minority Card scheme, providing quarterly stipends, legal recognition of Sikh and Hindu marriage acts, funds for restoring religious sites, and scholarships for minority students. She also announced that festivals like Baisakhi, Holi, Diwali, Christmas, and Easter will now be celebrated at the official level in the province.
National Minorities Day continues to serve as a reminder of Pakistan’s commitment to ensuring equality, safety, and opportunities for all its citizens.
