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LAHORE, Dec 25 (APP): Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has said that the provincial government regards minorities as its crown, and she considers their dignity, protection, and honour to be her personal responsibility.
Addressing a Christmas ceremony at Cathedral Church here on Thursday, she extended greetings to the Christian community and expressed her resolve to a safe and inclusive province. She announced that the number of Minority Cards 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 not only her vision but a shared dream of every Pakistani.
CM Maryam Nawaz said protecting minorities is a responsibility particularly resting on the majority community and assured that minorities receive an equal share in provincial resources. She highlighted that minority festivals are now celebrated freely and without fear, on par with Muslim holidays, calling it a matter of pride for the province.
Referring to Christmas celebrations, she noted cities are decorated, “Merry Christmas” banners are displayed, and a large Christmas tree and Santa Claus are installed at Liberty Chowk. She also acknowledged the contributions of her father and PML-N President Muhammad Nawaz Sharif in promoting minority welfare.
Sharing personal reflections, the chief minister said her education at a convent school instilled respect for other religions, a value reinforced by her faith and upbringing. Citing a saying of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) about standing as a witness for minorities against injustice, she described it as the strongest guarantee of minority rights.
She praised 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” and programmes like Dhee Rani, Rashan Card, Honhaar Scholarship, and Kisan Card. She added that the minority budget has been increased by 600 per cent, stressing their rightful claim on the provincial budget.
Maryam Nawaz said that the state will respond firmly to anyone harming minorities and vowed to stand “like a wall of lead” against injustice, assuring that no minority will face discrimination under her leadership.