Lahore: Punjab Minority Week 2026 began on Friday with an inaugural ceremony and an interfaith rally that started from the Presbyterian Church, Naulakha, and will continue until August 11, featuring events aimed at promoting religious harmony, tolerance and national unity.
The week-long celebrations are being observed across the province ahead of National Minorities Day on August 11.
Provincial Minister for Minority Affairs Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora addressed participants in the rally and said that the founders and leaders of different religions had always preached brotherhood, peace and mutual respect. He said the rally reflected the spirit of peace, love and unity among people of all faiths and demonstrated the province’s commitment to promoting interfaith harmony.
The minister said all citizens enjoy equal rights under the Constitution of Pakistan, adding that the celebrations send a clear message to the world that minorities are safe and respected in Pakistan. He also reaffirmed the Punjab government’s commitment to safeguarding the rights and welfare of minority communities.