ISLAMABAD: The Minorities Alliance Pakistan (MAP) on Thursday observed a candlelight vigil in remembrance of the late federal minister, Shahbaz Bhatti, who was assassinated 12 years ago in I-8 sector.

The participants of the vigil condemned the militant attacks which had started again across the country and said the nation would never allow terrorists to hijack Pakistan for their evil interests.

Clement Shahbaz Bhatti was elected as member of the National Assembly in 2008 and remained the federal minister for minorities affairs from November 2008 until his assassination on March 2, 2011.

Shamaun Alfred Gill, while addressing the gathering, said they all had gathered to remember Shahbaz Bhatti and pay tributes to his tireless struggle and sacrifice for the oppressed and marginalised communities of Pakistan.

“Bhatti devoted his life for promoting social and interfaith harmony among different sects of religions in Pakistan. His sacrifice will never go in vain, Mr Gill said.

He further said that Shahbaz Bhatti presented the enlightened face of Pakistan to the world.

He dedicated his entire life to the rights of the oppressed and deprived people and gave his life while fighting against division and discrimination in the name of religion,” Mr Gill said.

He said Mr Bhatti was the real representative of religious minorities. As a result of his struggle, Christian youth are getting government jobs because of the 5pc quota, he added.

“Many innocent people are being imprisoned on false charges of blasphemy. We have received complaints from families of some accused that they were tortured and forced to confess,” he said.

Asif John, Fiaz Bhatti, Anosh Bhatti, Riffat Prince and Waqas Bhatti also addressed the gathering.

Published in Dawn, March 3rd, 2023