Provincial Minister for Human Rights and Minorities Affairs, Khalil Tahir Sandhu has said that young generation of Pakistan is the torch bearer of human rights protection so as to eliminate discriminatory system which causes frustration and depression in society.
He stated this while addressing the participants of a seminar as Chief Guest, here on Saturday, organized by Human Rights and Minorities Affairs Department Government of the Punjab on the eve of "International Human Rights Day" observed throughout the world with this year's theme "Stand Up for Some Ones' Rights Today".
Secretary Human Rights and Minorities Affairs Asim Iqbal, Rector FC College Dr James Tabby, MPA Kanji Ram, Educationist Professor Mudassir Hussain Siyal, representatives of different religions, politicians, NGOs, Javed William, Chaudhry Mushtaq Gill and students from different colleges and universities attended the seminar. Students of Unique Group of Institutions presented two songs and a play on the theme of Human Rights at this occasion.
Secretary Human Rights and Minorities Affairs Asim Iqbal in his welcome address said that Punjab Government has taken different initiatives along with effective legislation to protect the rights of minorities living in the province. Minister Human Rights and Minorities Affairs Khalil Tahir Sandhu said that there is a need to change our social behaviors as division of human beings in different sections creates sense of deprivation which leads to extremism in society.
Khalil Tahir said that Punjab Government has done legislation on under-age marriages, implementing on 5% quota in government jobs for minorities, established Minorities Development Fund, disbursing education scholarships to the students of minorities and creating interfaith harmony among different religions.
Sandhu informed the participants that Chief Minister Punjab has approved to establish Human Rights Directorates in all the 36 districts of the province along with establishing Human Rights Task Force in which representation will be ensured to every segment of society.
Rector FC College Dr James Tabby said that as human beings we should be equal when it comes to basic rights, eliminating prejudice and discrimination, consciously working to solve this problem as what we would do for GOD, we should do for human beings around us because in helping humanity we are doing it for GOD. Renowned senior journalists Khalid Qayyum threw light on the linkage between human rights and our responsibilities for humanity, stressing upon the need to provide better atmosphere and opportunities for each other.
He appreciated the efforts of Punjab Government for its initiatives to eliminate the child and bonded labour, legislation against harassment of women and sexual exploitation of children. Moderator Naulakha Church, Dr Majeed Abel said that there are positive aspects in Pakistani culture with reference to protection of human rights and he was writing a book "Ye Bhi Pakistan Hey" in which he has depicted positive picture Pakistani civilization and culture.