Equality is essence of Islam, says CM on Diwali

Elahi directs implementation of job quota for minorities

In connection with Diwali festival, a special ceremony was organized at the CM’s Office wherein Punjab Chief Minister Chaudhry Parvez Elahi graced the occasion as the chief guest.

The cut a cake along with the Hindu communities and in connection with the festival and felicitated the Hindu community living in Pakistan.

Speaking on the occasion, the chief minister said minority students are being awarded scholarships from matric to PhD level in government educational institutions, adding that 2 per cent quota has been fixed for minority communities in higher educational institutions.

He stated that directives have been issued to ensure implementation on the 5 per cent job quota for minority communities, adding that 50 per cent scholarships in Central Punjab, 35 per cent in South Punjab and 15 per cent in Northern Punjab are being awarded to minority students.  He said that scholarships up to Rs50,000 are being awarded to minority students obtaining 50 per cent marks from matric to higher education level.

The CM underscored that such events promote tolerance and brotherhood in the society. He added that it is a responsibility of the state to safeguard the rights of minorities.

He highlighted that all minorities, including the Hindu community, have equal rights, adding that the Hindu and other minority communities are being provided equal opportunities to attain education. He outlined that giving better treatment and respect to minorities is the essence of Islam.

Members Punjab Assembly Youdester Chohan, Nawaz Chandia, Abbas Ali Shah, Muhammad Shafique, Habkok Rafique Babu, Samuel Yaqoob, Mahindar Pal Singh, Saira Raza, Fauzia Abbas, Shahida Malika, Nohais Khokhar, Aftab Gul, Muhammad Yasin, Chairman CM Complaint Cell Zubair Ahmad Khan, Secretary Minority Affairs and Human Rights and other officials were also present.

Separately, the chief minister visited the shrine of Hazrat Baba Farid-ud- Din Masood Ganj Shakar (RA) in Pakpattan.

The CM laid a wreath on the grave of the Sufi saint and prayed for country’s progress and prosperity.

Later, talking to journalist, the chief minister announced the construction of an overhead bridge to facilitate devotees visiting the shrine. He said that the parking problem will also be solved

He revealed that steps will be taken to demarcate land for the establishment of the Pakpattan Press Club at the earliest.

He went on to say that a proposal for the establishment of a residential colony for Pakpattan journalists will also be reviewed.

He directed the Pakpattan Deputy Commissioner to start efforts in this respect as soon as possible.

Comments are closed.