Thursday, 31 October 2024, 09:13:58 am

>
 
PM reaffirms commitment to safeguarding minorities' rights
December 23, 2023

Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar has underscored the unwavering commitment of Pakistan to safeguarding the rights and safety of all minorities, in accordance with the constitutional guarantees.

Addressing a ceremony in connection with Christmas in Islamabad on Saturday evening, he said that the protection of worship places for followers of different faiths is integral to the principles of the nation. He reiterated that the sanctity of religious diversity is embedded in the core values of the country.

The Prime Minister highlighted the historical precedence set by Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad Sallalaho Alyhe Wasallam, who accorded immense respect to a Christian delegation from Najran.

He further emphasized that the founder of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, articulated the protection of minority rights in his historic 11th August speech. In that seminal address, Quaid-e-Azam explicitly affirmed the rights of non-Muslim citizens to freely practice their faith and access their places of worship.

Expressing the obligation to uphold faith in all prophets from Adam (A.S.) to Muhammad (PHUH), Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar hailed Quaid-e-Azam as a visionary leader who anticipated the future. He acknowledged Quaid-e-Azam's foresight in recognizing and resisting the divisive ideology of Hindutva, ultimately leading to the establishment of an independent Muslim state.

The Prime Minister emphasized the freedom of speech in Pakistan while stressing that no individual or entity is permitted to propagate hatred among citizens. He commended the valuable contributions of the Christian community in the realms of education and healthcare.

Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar also reiterated the government's steadfast commitment to promoting harmony, inclusivity, and the protection of minority rights in Pakistan. 

The Prime Minister also congratulated Christmas to the Christian community and cut a cake on the occasion.