Minorities Enjoy Equal Rights Under Constitution: Yousaf Benjamin

Islamabad: Human rights defender Yousaf Benjamin has said the Constitution of Pakistan guarantees the fundamental rights of all citizens, including minorities, who enjoy equal rights in the country.

According to Radio Pakistan, in an exclusive interview with correspondent Qasim Bukhari in connection with National Minorities Day, Benjamin highlighted the various measures being taken to protect the rights of minority communities and promote their welfare. He emphasized that the government is actively working to foster religious freedom, equal opportunities, and interfaith harmony across the nation.

Yousaf Benjamin praised the Punjab government’s initiative, led by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, to observe Minorities Week. He noted that such initiatives demonstrate solidarity with minority communities and reaffirm the government’s commitment to their rights and welfare. He also commended Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s efforts for the welfare and protection of minority communities.

Referring to the installation of a forty-two-foot-tall Christmas tree at Liberty Chowk in Lahore last Christmas, Benjamin described it as a positive gesture of solidarity with the Christian community. He highlighted the Minority Card as a landmark initiative by the Punjab government, which aims to provide financial assistance and social protection to deserving members of minority communities.

Benjamin stressed the importance of safeguarding minority rights, ensuring religious freedom, and providing equal opportunities to all citizens as essential steps toward building a peaceful, tolerant, and inclusive society. He stated that Pakistan’s progress and prosperity depend on ensuring equal rights and opportunities for all citizens without discrimination and further strengthening interfaith harmony.