Punjab govt forms minority advisory council

38-member council to address minority issues, promote interfaith harmony

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LAHORE:

The Punjab government has announced the formation of a 38-member Minority Advisory Council Punjab (MACP) to address the concerns of minority communities and promote interfaith harmony.

Provincial Minister for Minority Affairs Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora said the council will serve as a consultative body to advise the government on resolving minority issues and safeguarding their rights.

It will also propose measures for fostering interfaith brotherhood across the province.

Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora has been appointed as the Chairman of MACP, with senior league leader Kamran Bhatti as Vice Chairman and Aqib Alam as Convener. The council's tenure will last three years, though the government holds the authority to dissolve it prematurely.

The Punjab chief minister retains the power to suspend or remove any council member, including the chairman, vice chairman, or convener.

The minister emphasised that the educational, social, economic, and political development of minorities will be a key focus, alongside legal protections for their fundamental rights and freedoms.

The council will also propose development projects aimed at enhancing the quality of life for minority communities.

"The Punjab government is committed to supporting minority communities, and MACP will play a pivotal role in ensuring their rights and addressing their grievances," said Minister Arora.

Notably, MACP members, including the chairman, vice chairman, and convener, will not receive any financial compensation.