APROPOS the column ‘Minorities’ long wait’ (Jan 10). I agree with the writer when he puts forth his argument for the equal rights of all citizens of Pakistan. In support of his argument, the writer has not only used the title of Dr Alexander John Malik’s book, My Pakistan: The Story of a Bishop but has also narrated instances regarding the patriotism and love for Pakistan of the author.

It is my contention that beyond the ‘minority’ and ‘majority’ dichotomy, there is need to accept the fact that Pakistan is a democratic state which should protect the rights of all its citizens. Politically speaking, any division of society on the basis of creed, caste or language can be detrimental.

The minorities have long held the belief that Pakistan should be an egalitarian society. Quaid-i-Azam’s vision of Pakistan was also egalitarian. However, what is required is to transcend minority and majority dichotomy to ensure an egalitarian society in which each citizen can feel proud to say Pakistan is my country.

Saad Malook

Lahore

Published in Dawn, January 13th, 2019