Punjab protecting minorities’ rights: CM Maryam

Lahore, August 12th, 2026 — Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has pledged to uphold the vision of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah for safeguarding the rights of minority communities in Pakistan. In a message marking National Minorities Day, the chief minister paid tribute to the minority population, describing Pakistan as a homeland where everyone can practice their faith freely and securely.

She emphasized that minorities are the pride and beauty of Pakistani society, and their dignity, honor, protection, and development would not be compromised. The Punjab government is committed to ensuring minorities receive full rights to education, development, and welfare. A significant milestone has been the introduction of the "Minority Card" initiative, providing Rs10,500 quarterly to minority families.

Punjab also became the first province to legalize "Anand Karaj," the Sikh wedding ceremony, under the Sikh Marriage Act 2024, and approved the Hindu Marriage Act 2017. The provincial government has increased funding for minority education, healthcare, and employment, and allocated more resources for religious festivals, including Baisakhi, Holi, Diwali, Christmas, and Easter.

Construction and restoration of historic gurdwaras, churches, and temples are top priorities, and scholarships for minority students have been introduced. CM Maryam Nawaz asserted that Punjab is transforming into a society where love and tolerance are embraced, affirming that minorities are the vibrant colors of Pakistan that will never fade.