By Asim Shahzad
LAHORE/GUJRANWALA: Speaker of the Punjab Assembly, Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan, on Tuesday praised the leadership of the Prime Minister of Pakistan and Syed Asim Munir for their decisive handling of national security and diplomatic challenges, while highlighting key legislative and development initiatives in Punjab.
Addressing a ceremony in Gujranwala, the Speaker announced that a comprehensive beautification and upgradation plan for the city’s vegetable market would be included in the upcoming provincial budget, citing the lack of basic facilities.
Meanwhile, significant legislative progress was made as the Minorities Rights Protection Bill 2026 was submitted to the Provincial Assembly. The bill, introduced by Philbos Christopher as a private member, seeks to criminalize forced religious conversions and forced marriages of minority communities.
Under the proposed law, forced conversion would be punishable by up to five years’ imprisonment along with fines, while strict legal action would also be taken against those involved in forced marriages. The bill further aims to prevent discrimination against minorities in education and employment, and ensure protection of their places of worship.
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It also proposes a review of the provincial educational curriculum to identify and eliminate hateful or discriminatory content against minority communities.
The Speaker noted that Pakistan is facing multiple challenges, particularly along its borders, which are impacting the national economy. Referring to past incidents, he said the country has endured cross-border terrorism, with public places and religious sites targeted.
Paying tribute to national sacrifices, he stated that over 100,000 lives have been lost in the fight against terrorism, contributing to the restoration of peace and stability. He emphasized that strong leadership has sent a clear message that terrorism will not be tolerated.
The development comes in the wake of a recent decision by the Federal Constitutional Court, reinforcing the need for stronger legal protections for minority communities.
