Government is providing equal opportunities to minorities in all sectors : Khalil Tahir Sandhu

Lahore : Provincial Minister for Human Rights and Minorities Affairs, Khalil Tahir Sandhu has said that Punjab government is endeavoring to provide equal opportunities of education, employment and health by the participation of minorities in all sectors of socio-economic development with a view to mitigate any sense of deprivation among them.

He stated this while addressing a Christmas Dinner hosted in the honor of ambassadors and diplomats of different countries. He said that Jesus Christ’s message of love, peace and harmony reminds us of our commitments as a nation to promote justice and care for downtrodden community.

The Minister highlighted the initiatives of the Punjab government and said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Punjab Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif, Human Rights and Minorities Affairs Department has ensured 5% quota in all government jobs  for minorities, financial assistance of Rs.5000/- is being provided to deserving minorities families.

Extensive legislation for protection of children and women rights along with elimination of bounded labour are the key achievements of the Punjab Government, he added. Mr. Sandhu further said so as to implement on 27 Conventions signed with the European Union, a special Task Force has been setup in the province in collaboration with local communities in all the 36 districts of Punjab to monitor any possible human rights violations and their redressal.

He also informed the Ambassadors and diplomats about the action being taken by Punjab government in accordance with National Action Plan, banning use of loudspeakers, hate material and speeches obstructing the instigation and propagation of violence through the exploitation of religion.

Khalil Tahir Sandhu said that Chief Minister Punjab Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has designated a Special Cabinet Committee in order to fulfill the requirements of the GSP Plus status of Pakistan. He also expressed his gratitude to FACES Pakistan for supporting to organize the Christmas dinner.

Ambassador Delegation of the European Union to Pakistan Jean-Francois Cautain appreciated the spirit and gesture of the Provincial Minister Khalil Tahir Sandhu who had always honored diplomats by arranging Christmas dinner every year. He also appreciated Punjab government efforts for protection of human rights and other similar measures for welfare of minorities.

Jean Francois said we were working closely for betterment of different segments of society in Pakistan.  He also appreciated Punjab Government for its prompt action on different issues to protect the rights of minorities in the province.