CM calls for protection of rights of persons with albinism

LAHORE, Jun 13 (APP): Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has said that albinism was not a disability or weakness but a part of natural diversity, stressing the need to ensure dignity, protection and equal opportunities for persons living with the genetic condition.

In her message on the occasion of International Albinism Awareness Day, the chief minister said persons with albinism represented a bright aspect of human beauty and that safeguarding their rights was a collective social responsibility.

She said Punjab envisioned a society where no individual was judged or considered inferior on the basis of skin colour, physical appearance or any congenital difference, adding that a culture of love, respect and acceptance for persons with albinism should be further promoted.

CM Maryam Nawaz said the Punjab government was actively working to provide comprehensive educational and healthcare facilities to persons with albinism, along with other specially-abled individuals. She underscored the importance of protecting their rights and called for collective efforts to eliminate all forms of discrimination against them.

The CM said ensuring dignity, protection and equal opportunities for persons with albinism was a social obligation, adding that the government’s objective was to build a Punjab where no person faced discrimination on the basis of skin colour, physical appearance or inherited characteristics.

She said persons with albinism required special attention in healthcare, education and social protection, while efforts should also be made to address the issue of social isolation often faced by them.

The CM added that International Albinism Awareness Day was observed to raise awareness about the inherited genetic condition and to promote and protect the rights of persons affected by it.