Minority-friendly Punjab promised

LAHORE:

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has said that she considers the dignity, protection and honour of the minorities her responsibility.

Addressing a Christmas ceremony at Cathedral Church on Thursday, she expressed her resolve to ensure a safe and inclusive province.

She announced that the number of Minority Cards for assistance would be increased from 75,000 to 100,000 and directed the authorities concerned to resolve issues related to minority graveyards across the province.

She stated that a "minority-friendly Punjab" is a shared dream of every Pakistani.

CM Maryam Nawaz said protecting minorities is a responsibility particularly resting on the majority community and said the minorities receive an equal share in provincial resources.

She said minorities' festivals were now celebrated freely and without fear, on par with Muslim holidays, calling it a matter of pride for the province.

She noted that cities were decorated, banners of Merry Christmas were displayed and a large Christmas tree and Santa Claus statue installed at Liberty Chowk.

She praised the minorities' contributions in the judiciary, education, health, armed forces, and other fields and highlighted their inclusion in provincial projects such as Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar, Dhee Rani, Ration Card, Honhaar Scholarship, and Kisan Card.

She said the budget for minorities had been increased by 600 per cent.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz said the state will respond firmly to anyone harming the minorities and no minority will face discrimination under her leadership.

Christmas was celebrated across Lahore as the Christian community marked the occasion through prayers, church services and community gatherings.

Christmas services and prayer gatherings were organised at nearly 250 churches in the city.

Major congregations also took place at the Sacred Heart Cathedral at Regal Chowk and other prominent churches, where large numbers of families attended the services.

Following prayers, community members exchanged Christmas greetings and participated in social activities.

Homes were decorated, Christmas trees were installed and cakes shared. Residents said Christmas also provides an opportunity for social interaction during the winter holidays.

Bishop Emeritus Dr Alexander John Malik said Christmas carries a message of love, peace, tolerance and service to humanity. He expressed hope that the celebrations would strengthen interfaith harmony, mutual respect and equality in the country.