Promoting harmony: CM lauds contribution of minorities in Pakistan’s development

Murad Ali Shah celebrates National Minorities' Day with Christians, Hindus and Sikhs

KARACHI: Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah thanked Christian missionaries, saying he is what he is today because of their contributions towards his education.

To celebrate the National Day for Minorities, Shah visited on Thursday Trinity Cathedral, Swami Narayan Mandir and the Gurdwara in Clifton, and expressed his solidarity with religious minorities and lauded their contribution in the development of Pakistan. The CM, along with some cabinet members, visited Trinity Cathedral in the morning, where Bishop Daniel Sadiq welcomed them. While addressing the gathering at the church, the bishop praised the CM's gesture of celebrating the National Day of Minorities with them.

Speaking on the occasion, the CM noted that religious minorities have contributed in education and health sectors. "I have received education from a Christian missionary school and I am proud to say that what I am today has your [Christians'] contributions in the shape of my education," he said. Shah added that the government and his party are committed to the cause of minorities' rights.

"In my cabinet, the party leadership has given representation to a Christian as a special assistant," the CM said, adding that he will be looking after their problems personally. The CM and the audience also observed a two-minute silence for those who lost their lives in the Quetta blast on August 8.

After the church, the CM paid a visit to Swami Narayan Mandir, where he was received by Hindu community leaders. The people at the temple and the CM lit candles in honour of the victims of the Quetta carnage.

The CM was also celebrating his 54th birthday on Thursday, for which cake-cutting ceremonies were arranged at the mandir and the church.

Later on, the CM visited the Sikh gurdwara at Swami Narayan Mandir. Shah spent time with the people there and witnessed their religious activities. "This is your country, enjoy your life free of any fear," Shah said, while assuring the minorities that he is with them.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 12^th, 2016.