MNA Bhandara extends new year greetings, prays for Pakistan’s progress

ISLAMABAD, Jan 01 (APP): Member of the National Assembly Isphanyar M. Bhandara on Thursday extended New Year greetings to the people of Pakistan, with prayers for the country’s advancement, peace, and prosperity.
In a statement, Bhandara said that Pakistan celebrates all religious festivals, including Christmas, Easter, Holi, and Baisakhi, reflecting the nation’s inclusive and pluralistic culture.
Emphasizing equal citizenship, he said that every Pakistani enjoys equal rights irrespective of religious affiliation.
He commended Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif for her initiatives aimed at empowering minority communities, particularly the distribution of Minority Cards.
Bhandara said that minority religious festivals are now being celebrated freely and without fear, noting that cities were adorned with ‘Merry Christmas’ banners during the Christmas festivities.
Highlighting the contributions of minorities, he praised their services in the judiciary, education, healthcare, the armed forces, and other sectors, adding that the achievements of prominent minority figures are etched in golden letters in history.
Expressing concern over reports of persecution of minorities in India, he referred to incidents of vandalism ahead of Christmas as deeply troubling.
As the New Year begins, Bhandara reiterated his prayers for Pakistan’s prosperity and stability.
He said Pakistanis stand shoulder to shoulder with their Armed Forces and are prepared to make any sacrifice for the motherland.
“Pakistan is a peaceful country and has always supported peace. However, our silence should not be misconstrued as weakness,” he said.