LAHORE, December 19: As part of the ongoing 12-day official Christmas celebrations of the Government of Punjab, the Youth Development Foundation (YDF), in collaboration with the Inspector General of Prisons Punjab and the Department of Human Rights & Minority Affairs, Government of Punjab, organized a Christmas ceremony for minority inmates at Central Jail Lahore.
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The event reflected the Punjab Government’s inclusive vision of sharing Christmas festivities with the Christian community at all levels, including correctional institutions.
Provincial Minister for Minority Affairs, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, attended the ceremony as the chief guest. He cut the Christmas cake along with minority inmates and distributed Christmas gifts.
Addressing the ceremony, the Provincial Minister stated that true inclusion means ensuring dignity, equality, and religious freedom for every citizen, regardless of religion or circumstances. He emphasized that the Government of Punjab does not confine humanitarian values and human rights within prison walls, but stands with minority communities everywhere. He appreciated the efforts of YDF and the prison administration, terming the sharing of Christmas joy with minority inmates a commendable initiative.
Shahid Rehmat, Executive Director YDF, said that the Youth Development Foundation has been working for the past 15 years across Pakistan to promote peacebuilding, minority rights, and interfaith harmony. He added that on this occasion, Christmas gifts were distributed among more than 170 minority inmates, including 10 women prisoners, so that no one is deprived of the festive spirit.
DIG Prisons Mohsin Rafiq said that the Prisons Department believes in humane treatment of inmates, religious freedom, and the process of rehabilitation and reform. He noted that such events play an important role in boosting the morale of prisoners, particularly contributing to the mental and emotional well-being of minority inmates.
Rana Manan, Chairman Task Force for Prisons, appreciated the collaboration between civil society and government institutions, stating that such inclusive initiatives promote social harmony and convey a clear message that the state values every citizen beyond their circumstances.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, the Provincial Minister for Minority Affairs visited various barracks, reviewed cleanliness arrangements and kitchen facilities, and also cut the Christmas cake with minority inmates in a spirit of solidarity and compassion.
