KP CM directs for ensuring disbursement of financial assistance

PESHAWAR, Apr 01 (APP):Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Muhammad Sohail Afridi directed the concerned authorities to ensure the disbursement of financial assistance to all victims of the 2013 terrorist attack on All Saints Church, Kohati Gate, Peshawar, within the current week.

He issued these directives while chairing a meeting of the Assessment Committee of the Endowment Fund established to support minority communities affected by terrorism.

The meeting, held via video link, reviewed progress on current interventions and deliberated on measures to enhance the Fund’s effectiveness, targeting, and sustainability.

The chief minister emphasized timely delivery and transparency in the disbursement process. In order to strengthen the Fund’s impact and outreach, the Chief Minister approved a doubling of its seed allocation from Rs 200 million to Rs 400 million.

In a series of key policy decisions, the Chief Minister approved an increase in the Endowment Fund’s seed allocation from Rs 200 million to Rs 400 million. Financial assistance for widows has been enhanced from Rs 1 million to Rs 2 million, for orphans from Rs 0.5 million to Rs 1.5 million, and for persons with disabilities from Rs 0.5 million to Rs 1 million.

Compensation for injured individuals has also been increased from Rs 0.1 million to Rs 0.6 million. To institutionalize and streamline service delivery, the Chief Minister directed the formulation of a proposal for establishing a dedicated directorate for minority affairs within the Auqaf Department, aimed at improving coordination, oversight, and policy implementation.

He further instructed that a comprehensive rehabilitation scheme for residential colonies of minority communities be proposed for the upcoming Annual Development Programme.

The Chief Minister underscored that safeguarding minority rights and ensuring their socio-economic inclusion is both a constitutional responsibility and a core governance priority.

He reiterated that minority communities are integral to the province’s social fabric and economic progress, and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to standing by them, particularly in the aftermath of terrorism-related incidents.

He further stated that the government remains committed to ensuring equal rights, equitable opportunities, and inclusive development for all citizens.

He emphasized that durable peace and sustainable development are intrinsically linked to the promotion of religious harmony, tolerance, and social cohesion.