By Asim Shahzad
LAHORE: resolution has been submitted in the Punjab Assembly seeking the establishment of an autonomous commission for the protection of minorities and civil rights in the province.
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The resolution was jointly moved by Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) members of the Punjab Assembly, Rahila Khadim Hussain and Philbos Christopher.
According to the text of the resolution, the Constitution of Pakistan makes it indispensable to establish an autonomous body for safeguarding the religious, social and civil rights of all minority communities in Punjab. The resolution urges the Punjab government to set up a separate and independent institution titled the “Punjab Commission for Minority Rights.”
The proposed commission will be responsible for reviewing issues faced by minority communities and making recommendations regarding violations of their rights. It will also suggest measures to ensure the protection of places of worship, promote religious freedom and guarantee equal opportunities for minorities.
The resolution further recommends that the commission submit an annual report to the Punjab Assembly. It also emphasizes that the commission must be provided with adequate powers, financial resources and staff to enable it to perform its functions effectively.
