Karachi: The spokesperson for the Mayor of Karachi and PPP Parliamentary Leader in the KMC, Karamullah Waqasi, on Tuesday lauded the “unforgettable” contributions of minority communities toward Pakistan’s development, stability, and national unity.
In a special message marking National Minorities Day, Waqasi highlighted that minority citizens have rendered invaluable services across sectors including education, healthcare, the judiciary, civil services, the armed forces, and trade – since the country’s inception. He concluded that their dedication remains a profound source of pride for the entire nation.
Karamullah Waqasi said that the decision to observe August 11 as National Minorities Day was taken during President Asif Ali Zardari’s first presidential term in 2009. The purpose was to reaffirm the commitment to protecting the rights of minority communities, promoting equality and religious harmony, and ensuring their effective participation in national life.
He said effective participation of minorities in politics is also essential for a strong democratic society. Reserved seats for minorities in Parliament and provincial assemblies are an important means of making their political voice effective at the national and provincial levels. However, minority citizens should also be provided opportunities to advance in mainstream politics and assume leadership roles.
The spokesperson said that Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto envisioned a Pakistan where all citizens enjoy equal rights without discrimination based on religion, language, colour or ethnicity. The PPP has always played its role in promoting the constitution, democracy, human rights, religious tolerance and interfaith harmony.
Karamullah Waqasi said that minority communities in Karachi as well as across Pakistan have made significant contributions to the national economy and social development. In a multicultural city like Karachi, Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Parsi and other communities are an important part of the city’s social, economic, educational and commercial life. Their services and sacrifices can never be forgotten.
