Punjab govt committed to protecting human rights, empowering minorities: Minister Arora

LAHORE, Jun 15 (APP): Punjab Minister for Human Rights and Minorities Affairs Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora on Monday said the Punjab government was committed to protecting and promoting human rights, social inclusion and equal opportunities for all citizens, particularly minority communities.

He added that concrete measures were being taken under the vision of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif to ensure dignity, equality and socio-economic empowerment of all segments of society, particularly minorities.

Addressing the inaugural and orientation consultation of the Human Rights Governance Project, organized by Human Friends Organization (HFO) in collaboration with the Department of Human Rights and Minorities Affairs, here, he said the Punjab government was pursuing inclusive policies aimed at strengthening the rights of minority communities and ensuring their meaningful participation in social, educational and economic development. He said equal access to education, employment opportunities and public services without discrimination was being promoted, adding that protecting the rights and dignity of every citizen remained a top priority of the government.

The minister said sustainable human rights governance required strong partnerships among government institutions, civil society organizations and community stakeholders. He appreciated the role of HFO and other civil society partners in supporting government efforts to promote awareness, tolerance, social harmony and respect for fundamental rights.

Speaking on the occasion, Secretary Human Rights and Minorities Affairs Dr Usman Ali Khan highlighted the importance of institutional reforms and coordinated efforts to strengthen human rights governance across Punjab.

The consultation was attended by MPA Ijaz Alam Augustine, Syeda Samreen Taj, Maria Talal, Fizzah Memona, Rukhsana Shafique, Uzma Kardar and other representatives from government departments, civil society organizations, religious communities, academia and the media.

Participants were briefed on the objectives of the Human Rights Governance Project, which aimed to strengthen institutional mechanisms, enhance public awareness, encourage citizen engagement and support evidence-based initiatives for the promotion and protection of human rights across the province. The participants appreciated the initiative and expressed their commitment to advancing human rights, social cohesion, equality and inclusion in Punjab.