President Zardari vows to work for protection of minorities’ rights

Liaquat Ali

Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari has expressed the resolve to work for the welfare and protection of minorities’ rights.

Addressing a ceremony in connection with the National Minorities Day in Islamabad on Monday, he said minorities are an essential and respected part of Pakistani society.

He added that minorities’ rights, freedom, and safety are fully protected under the Constitution of Pakistan.

Asif Ali Zardari said that the state of is determined against all forms of discrimination, extremism, and violence, adding that such acts have no place in society and will not be allowed to threaten national unity and integrity.

He said that the state has taken practical measures to promote inclusion and ensure equal opportunities for all.

These include separate seats for non-Muslims in the parliament and provincial assemblies, a five percent quota in federal and provincial government jobs, and scholarships for minority students from the primary level to higher and professional education.

Asif Zardari assured the minority communities that their worship places, if presently under illegal occupation, would be retrieved without delay. He said he would ask the government to take steps to ensure such places are immediately restored to their rightful custodians.

He noted that the National Policy for Interfaith Harmony has been designed to promote religious tolerance, strengthen social integration, and unite all religious communities as part of a cohesive national fabric.

Marking the significance of the day, Asif Ali Zardari called for a collective resolve to build an inclusive and stronger Pakistan where every citizen enjoys equality, mutual respect, and legal protection, and is empowered to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s shared destiny.