Commission to protect minority rights announced

Islamabad: In a statement marking National Minorities Day, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called for fostering the spirit of peace and unity that characterizes Pakistan's minority populations as the nation continues to progress. During a function to commemorate the occasion, Sharif stressed the importance of investing in modern education, skill development, and empowering the youth, particularly in the areas of health and education.

He highlighted the long-standing harmony and cohesive nature of the country's minority communities, which include Christians, Hindus, Parsis, and Sikhs, who have all actively contributed to the nation's development. Sharif commended the minority communities for their tireless efforts in supporting Pakistan, drawing parallels to their cooperation with the nation's founding father, Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah.

The prime minister paid tribute to notable figures such as Jogendra Nath Mandal and Cecil Chaudhry, emphasizing the minority communities' vital role in defending the country during times of war. Earlier, the prime minister announced that his government was taking measures to establish an independent commission dedicated to safeguarding minority rights.

This commission, which was set up under legislation passed last year, will handle complaints, oversee constitutional and legal protections, monitor events surrounding religious sites and employment quotas, and provide recommendations on government policies and legislation.