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LAHORE, Jan 22 (APP):Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif inaugurated Pakistan’s first “Chief Minister Minority Card” in a historic ceremony held at Aiwan-e-Iqbal Complex, here on Wednesday.
Speaking at the event, she declared, “Minorities are our pride.” She announced that the issuance of minority cards would be increased from 50,000 to 75,000, ensuring greater support for minority communities. Members of Hindu, Sikh, Christian, and other communities, including men and women, attended the event and greeted the Chief Minister with enthusiastic slogans of Pakistan Zindabad.
During the ceremony, the CM engaged directly with attendees, distributing minority cards and observing their use. She personally monitored a transaction made using Sonia Bibi’s minority card at an ATM. Religious leaders, including Bishop Nadeem Kamran, Sardar Saranjit Singh, and Pandit Lal, offered prayers for the success of the initiative.
Provincial Minister for Minority Affairs Ramesh Singh Arora, delivering his speech in Punjabi, expressed deep gratitude to the Chief Minister for her dedication and efforts towards minority welfare.
Addressing the participants, the CM reaffirmed her government’s commitment to protecting and improving the lives of minorities, emphasizing that they have an equal role in the construction and development of Pakistan. “It is our responsibility to safeguard their rights and ensure their prosperity. We will firmly oppose anyone who threatens their lives or property,” she said. She added that minorities are a symbol of pride and emphasized that their true identity lies in their patriotism and humanity, not in being labeled as a minority.
The CM shared her disagreement with the term “minority,” highlighting that the white stripe in Pakistan’s flag signifies the unity and inclusion of all communities. She expressed pride in the diversity represented at the event and commended the Sikh, Hindu, and Christian communities for their contributions to the nation. Citing the teachings of the Holy Prophet (PBUH), she reminded everyone of Islam’s emphasis on justice and equal rights for non-Muslims.
She noted that her father, Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, had always taught her to treat all citizens equally and had urged her to avoid using the term “minority.” Reflecting on her visit to Maryamabad Church, she recalled being told that no provincial chief executive had visited the church in 103 years, underscoring her government’s commitment to inclusion.
The CM announced that 50,000 minority families would receive Rs. 10,500 every three months, with the number of beneficiaries set to increase to 75,000 in the coming years. Additionally, festival grants for minorities have been raised from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 15,000, and the annual development budget for minority communities has been increased by 60%. She also revealed plans to complete a cemetery for the Christian community within a few months.
Maryam Nawaz highlighted international recognition of Punjab’s inclusive policies, citing the global praise received for appointing the province’s first Sikh minister. She thanked the Provincial Minority Affairs Department and the Bank of Punjab for their efforts in launching the Minority Card program.
The CM reiterated her commitment to the well-being of all citizens, expressing her determination to foster unity and inclusion in Pakistan. She described the Minority Card as a token of the government’s appreciation and a step towards building a more inclusive and equitable society.