By Asim Shahzad
LAHORE: A grand ceremony marking National Minority Day and Independence Day was held at The Process of Life School, 8 Chak Mehboob Town, Faisalabad, organized by the Minority Rights Movement (MRM).
The event, themed “The Role of Religious Minorities in the Movement and Construction of Pakistan”, featured prayers, national songs, speeches, and tableaux presented by students to highlight social reform and the spirit of independence.
The ceremony was presided over telephonically from New York, USA, by Pervaiz Rafique, Central President MRM and former MPA Punjab. Shields and awards were presented to teachers and students for their contributions.
Addressing the gathering, Naeem Yaqub Gul, PPP ticket holder PP-115, praised the historical role of religious minorities in Pakistan’s creation and development, lamenting that Quaid-e-Azam’s August 11, 1947 speech is still being sidelined.
Dr. Shamoon Bhatti, MRM Information Secretary, stressed that minorities have always served Pakistan with loyalty yet remain insecure and marginalized. He urged the state to honor international human rights commitments, ensure safety for minorities, and grant them the right to elect their own representatives.
In his address from New York, Rafique reaffirmed MRM’s commitment to fighting for minority rights, promoting religious freedom, and fostering equality to make Pakistan a “cradle of peace and security.” He pledged to continue the struggle against hatred and discrimination.
Other speakers, including Principal Asher Anthony, Ijaz Jacob Gul (MRM Secretary General), Anwar Anjum Chaudhry (Finance Secretary), Shahbaz Jatt, and Pervez Naar, echoed calls for equality and inclusion. The event concluded with a renewed pledge to uphold the ideals of Quaid-e-Azam and strengthen Pakistan through unity.
