ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Human Rights Dr Shireen Mazari on Wednesday said that concrete steps had been taken through a comprehensive strategy to ensure protection of the rights of minorities, adding that the Constitution guaranteed the protection of human rights, including those of minorities.

“We are fully committed to protecting the due rights of minorities to ensure their freedom and security. Improving their socio-economic status is one of the government’s top priorities,” she said during a meeting with a delegation representing minorities.

Federal Secretary Rabiya Javeri Agha and other officials of the ministry also attended the meeting. Matters relating to the rights of minorities, including laws and rules for their protection, also came under discussion and members of the delegation put forward suggestions in this regard. The delegation was also informed about the implementation of laws, policy and measures.

Representatives of minority communities propose steps needed to protect their rights

The minister said the government had taken pragmatic measures to ensure the better status of minorities without any prejudice, adding that the Constitution guaranteed the human rights protection and the ministry ensured its implementation.

Ms Mazari said that the minorities in Pakistan had religious freedom and complete security, adding that they were enjoying complete freedom as equal citizen of the motherland.

The members of the delegation praised endeavours of the government, especially the Ministry of Human Rights, for the protection and promotion of rights of minorities and assured their full support in this regard.

Published in Dawn, September 13th, 2018