Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif has said that minorities of subcontinent have got new confidence and courage due to creation of Pakistan. He said that Pakistan is a strong refuge for them where they have complete freedom and rights. He said that in an atmosphere of subcontinent drenched with cast and creed and ethical prejudices, Pakistan is a safe haven for minorities where universal human values based on equality.
Shahbaz said that minorities have been brought into national mainstream of development equally in Pakistan so that no one should lag behind in the race of development. He further said that elimination of poverty in the subcontinent is essential where everyone has equal opportunities of progress. He said that a separate department has been set up for the welfare of minorities in the province. This department is playing an important role with regard to fulfilling the educational needs of non-Muslim students and welfare of the minorities, he added.
He expressed these views while talking to a representative delegation of Dalit Scholars of South Asia, here on Saturday. Senator Pervaiz Rashid, Special Assistants Zaeem Hussain Qadri and Begum Zakiya Shahnawaz, prominent columnist Ata-ul-Haq Qasmi, Secretary Information and intellectuals were also present.
Secretary of Indian National Dalit Forum, Revi Kumar expressing his views on this occasion said that they can never forget the love and sincerity received in Pakistan. Co-ordinator of Bangladesh Dalit Pershad Bekash Das and General Secretary Ashok Das said that the hospitality of Pakistanis is unforgettable.