TLDR:
• Maryam Nawaz announces Diwali support
• Minorities recognised as national pride
• Punjab–India cooperation on smog
LAHORE (The Thursday Times) — Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif extended heartfelt Diwali greetings to Pakistan’s Hindu community in an address at a Diwali event in Lahore, calling the festival’s light “a lamp that brings hearts closer.” In her address, she underscored the Punjab government’s commitment to minority rights and inclusion, promising new policies to uplift and protect minorities, while sharing plans for increased aid to deserving minority families this Diwali. The chief minister also called for cooperation with Indian Punjab to tackle shared issues like smog, stressing the importance of unity over division.
Diwali message highlights unity and equality
Maryam Nawaz’s speech brought together representatives of Pakistan’s Hindu community and other religious and ethnic minorities, with a message of unity that extended beyond religious affiliation. She began by warmly welcoming all attendees, emphasising that Diwali should be a celebration of togetherness, where the “lamp of Diwali brings hearts closer.” Reflecting on Pakistan’s national identity, she reminded the audience that all Pakistanis, regardless of background, are equals under the nation’s banner, dismissing traditional distinctions of “majority” and “minority.”
In a moment of personal reflection, the chief minister mentioned that her father, former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, had instilled in her a profound respect for minority communities. She recalled that he discouraged using the term “minority,” believing it divisive. “Do not call them a minority,” she recounted him saying, “they are part of us and our pride.” The event underscored the government’s dedication to respecting all religious and ethnic communities as integral to the fabric of Pakistan.
Plans for the minority card and expanded financial support
Maryam Nawaz’s address included significant announcements regarding new government initiatives to enhance minority protections and support. She shared plans to introduce a “Minority Card” in Punjab, aiming to provide financial assistance directly to those in need within these communities. This upcoming card would allow eligible recipients to access benefits, with current plans indicating an allocation of 10,500 rupees to those who qualify.
In addition to the Minority Card, Maryam Nawaz revealed a special Diwali grant allocated specifically for low-income Hindu families, providing 15,000 rupees to each of the 1,400 families identified for support. The card and associated financial packages aim to alleviate economic pressures for families, particularly around major cultural and religious events. Maryam Nawaz noted that these funds reflect the administration’s commitment to addressing socio-economic disparities and acknowledging the essential role minorities play in Pakistan’s prosperity.
Minority contributions celebrated
Acknowledging the contributions of minorities in Pakistan’s development, Maryam Nawaz highlighted the achievements of Hindu, Sikh, and Christian communities in areas of business, science, and social progress. Emphasising their vital role, she referred to these communities as “the crown on our heads,” reiterating the Punjab government’s respect and high regard for their historical and ongoing contributions. The Chief Minister’s remarks celebrated a Pakistan enriched by diversity, where each community’s input has propelled the nation forward.
She pointed out that Punjab’s history is filled with collaborative moments where minorities played pivotal roles in supporting and building the province. By amplifying their voices and recognising their achievements, the chief minister illustrated her administration’s vision for a Pakistan where diversity is not merely accepted but celebrated.
Commitment to cross-border cooperation on smog
In addition to social and cultural topics, the chief minister addressed the pressing environmental concern of smog, a recurring problem in Punjab. Smog season continues to affect air quality across Pakistan’s Punjab province and neighbouring Indian states. Maryam Nawaz expressed her intention to work towards a solution that would require bilateral efforts, announcing that she is considering writing to the Chief Minister of Indian Punjab to open talks on reducing regional smog levels.
Acknowledging the severity of the issue, she described smog not as a political problem but as a humanitarian one that impacts millions on both sides of the border. The Chief Minister’s stance marks a shift toward collaborative environmental diplomacy, as she highlighted that effective solutions to air pollution require regional cooperation. This announcement, set against the backdrop of her Diwali message, reflected a broader commitment to a shared future where common challenges are addressed through unity and mutual respect.