Islamabad: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, daughter of former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, on Wednesday (October 30) while attending the Diwali celebrations organised at 90-Shahrah-e-Quaid-e-Azam, announced various initiatives to support minorities in the state.

Maryam Nawaz also said that she has written a letter to the Chief Minister of Punjab, India, Bhagwant Singh Mann, asking for joint efforts to eliminate smog.

The protection of the rights of minorities 

He urged citizens to view the issue of smog as a human concern rather than a political issue and expressed his determination to protect the rights of minorities.

During the ceremony, CM Maryam Nawaz announced the issuance of special cards for minority communities and the establishment of a minority virtual police station. She also spoke about the state government's plans to improve development in minority areas.

He lit the traditional Diwali diya and also took part in virtual fireworks. The Punjab CM also interacted with Hindu women and distributed cheques of Rs 15,000 to 1,400 Hindu families, reports Associated Press of Pakistan news agency.

Addressing the gathering and assuring support to the minority communities, she said, "If anyone commits atrocities against minorities, I will stand with the victim. We are all Pakistanis and Diwali is a symbol of peace, harmony and love."

Maryam Nawaz Sharif was elected Chief Minister of Punjab earlier this year. She took office in February 2024 and made history by becoming the first woman to become Chief Minister in any province of Pakistan.

Maryam Sharif attended Diwali celebrations

Highlighting the importance of inclusiveness, she said, "I am very happy to light the Diwali diya. It is a symbol of our unity as Pakistanis." She also shared her childhood teachings and recalled how her father Nawaz Sharif taught her to consider minorities as a source of pride. Maryam stressed that all religious festivals will be respected collectively, the report said.

Addressing the security concerns faced by minorities, he directed the police to ensure that they provide immediate protection in case of threat. He stressed that Islam teaches respect and protection for all, including minorities.

In a major announcement, he said that under the Minority Card to be launched on December 20, needy families will be given Rs 10,500 every three months. He said the assistance and the number of beneficiaries under this card will increase over time and special provisions will also be included for Divyang members of minority communities.

Thanks to diplomats of various countries

The Punjab CM shared her experiences with the Sikh pilgrims and thanked the diplomats from various countries for participating in the Diwali celebrations. During the Diwali celebrations, a Hindu pandit named Kashi Ram performed Puja-Archana and Diwali rituals. He also offered special prayers for the development and stability of Pakistan.

Pakistan National Assembly member Khel Das paid tribute to celebrating Diwali at official level for the first time, saying there is no hatred in Pakistan. Provincial Minister for Minority Affairs Ramesh Singh Arora also addressed the gathering at the function, which was attended by members of the Minority Assembly and people from the Hindu community in large numbers. Provincial Cabinet members, Chief Secretary and other senior officials were also present at the Diwali celebrations.