Human Rights and Minorities Affairs Minister Khalil Tahir Sandhu said that young generation of Pakistan is the torch bearer of human rights protection, working towards eliminating discriminatory system which causes frustration and depression in society.
He stated this while addressing the participants of a seminar as the chief guest. The event was organised by Human Rights and Minorities Affairs Department in connection with the celebration of ‘International Human Rights Day’ observed throughout the world with this year’s theme ‘Stand Up for Some Ones’ Rights Today’.
Human Rights and Minorities Affairs Secretary Asim Iqbal, FC College Rector Dr James Tabby, MPA Kanji Ram, Educationist Prof Mudassir Hussain Siyal, representatives of different religions, politicians, NGOs, Javed William, Ch Mushtaq Gill and students from different colleges and universities attended the seminar.
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.
Khalil Tahir Sandhu said, “There is a need to change our social behaviours, as the division of human beings into different sections creates a sense of deprivation, which leads to extremism in society.”
Khalil Tahir said that Punjab government did legislation on underage marriages, implementing on 5 per cent 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.
He informed the participants that Punjab chief minister 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.
FC College Rector 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.”
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 in eliminating the child and bonded labour, legislation against harassment of women and sexual exploitation of children.