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LAHORE, Jul 29 (APP): Punjab Minister for Minorities Affairs Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, chairing a consultative meeting at the Human Rights Camp Office on Tuesday, reviewed strategies for promoting interfaith harmony and social cohesion across the province.
Addressing the gathering, Ramesh Arora said: “It is our shared responsibility to ensure that followers of all religions are treated as equal citizens of the state, with full respect for their beliefs, cultures, and values”.
The meeting was attended by Secretary for Human Rights Farid Ahmad Tarar, religious scholars from diverse faiths, civil society members, human rights activists, and prominent social figures.
The participants collectively acknowledged the need for a structured interfaith harmony plan and broader engagement with all communities.
The minister said that Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif had shown practical solidarity with minority communities by participating in religious celebrations such as Diwali, Holi, Christmas, and the birth
anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji. “Her commitment reflects the vision of an inclusive and tolerant Punjab,” he said, adding that Pakistan’s real identity lies in love, compassion, and coexistence.
During the meeting, it was unanimously agreed that Minorities Day on August 11 will be celebrated on a large scale throughout the province. The planned activities will include events at academic institutions, worship places, and community centers, involving scholars and leaders from all religious backgrounds.
Human Rights and Minorities Affairs Secretary Farid Ahmad Tarar said that his department is committed for the protection of minority rights and described interfaith harmony as a powerful expression of Pakistan’s true spirit.
Javed William, Head of Faces Pakistan, pledged to continue supporting the Punjab government’s initiatives in this area. He stressed the importance of upholding respect for all faiths within the bounds of law and the Constitution.
Rev Dr Majid Abel called for expanding interfaith awareness in educational institutions, the media, religious gatherings, and at the grassroots level, urging a proactive culture of harmony and coexistence.
The meeting concluded with a collective commitment to pursue ongoing, sincere efforts for the promotion of religious tolerance, interfaith understanding, and national cohesion. A special prayer for peace, progress, and global harmony was led by Mufti Ashiq Hussain.
Prof Dr Masood Mujahid, Allama Dr Badr Munir Mujaddidi, Amarnath Randhawa, Syed Mudasar Hussain Shah, Syed Mahmood Ghaznavi, Muhammad Yousaf (Director Human Rights), Noor-us-Saba (SPURT), and other distinguished figures attended the meeting.