In a significant meeting today, a delegation representing the Christian community had a fruitful discussion with Caretaker Prime Minister Anwar ul Haq Kakar, addressing concerns about the Jaranwala incident that occurred on August 16, 2023, and the broader protection of minorities in Pakistan.
The delegation expressed their gratitude to Prime Minister Anwar ul Haq Kakar for his prompt response to the Jaranwala tragedy and his visit to the affected area shortly after the incident. They commended his commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of minorities.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Kakar assured the delegation that the entire state machinery is dedicated to upholding the rights and protection of minorities. He emphasized that minorities in Pakistan enjoy fundamental rights and that those responsible for the Jaranwala incident will be dealt with sternly to prevent such incidents in the future.
Prime Minister Kakar urged the minority community to communicate their challenges and suggestions to the government, highlighting the importance of swift problem-solving. He stressed that economic rights and a peaceful, prosperous society can be achieved through mutual respect for each other's beliefs.
In addition, Prime Minister Kakar called for collective efforts from all sectors of society to combat extremism effectively. The delegation warmly welcomed the appointment of Khalil George, a member of the minority community, as the Caretaker Federal Minister for Human Rights, seeing it as a positive step toward ensuring minority rights and representation.
The delegation consisted of notable individuals, including Federal Minister Khalil George, former MNA Asiya Nasir, former Minister Punjab Ijaz Augustine, Arch Bishop Joseph Arshad, Bishop Humphrey, Bishop Inderyas of Jaranwala, Bishop Samuel Azraya, Pastor Patras Salamat, Pastor Hanook Hashmat, Pastor Oliver Zia, and Adeel Rehmat.
