QUETTA: Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti has extended warm congratulations and assurances of full support to the Sikh community in Pakistan on the occasion of the 556th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
In an official message, the Chief Minister emphasized that Balochistan has historically been a model of interfaith harmony and mutual respect, where diverse communities have coexisted peacefully for centuries. He stated that the provincial government is committed to protecting minority rights and ensuring their welfare.
“The provincial government will continue to take all possible measures for the protection of minority rights and their welfare,” Bugti affirmed. He assured that the government would provide necessary support to the Sikh community without discrimination, recognizing minorities as an integral part of the province’s social fabric.
The Chief Minister reiterated the constitutional guarantee of religious freedom and equal civic rights for all religious minorities in Pakistan. He praised the role of minority communities in promoting peace, development, and harmony in Balochistan, describing their contribution as commendable.
Bugti emphasized that the government remains dedicated to fostering brotherhood and respect among all religious and ethnic groups, stating that “unity is the true strength and identity of Pakistan.”
Earlier this month the Balochistan government has decided to launch the “Peoples Minority Card” to promote the social and economic development of minority communities across the province.
Chief Minister Balochistan Mir Sarfraz Bugti said that the initiative aims to ensure access to healthcare, education, employment, and business opportunities for minorities. He added that protecting the rights and welfare of minority communities remains a top priority of the provincial government.
For the effective implementation of the program, the government has allocated Rs 500 million for the Minority Endowment Fund in the current fiscal year. The Chief Minister further announced that the fund’s budget will be increased to Rs 1 billion in the next financial year to expand the program’s reach.
Mir Sarfraz Bugti stated that under the initiative, various support schemes will be launched for minority communities to improve their living standards and participation in provincial development.
He also emphasized that a modern digital monitoring system will be introduced to ensure transparency and efficiency in the utilization of the Minority Endowment Fund. The program’s framework and operational details are being finalized in consultation with minority leaders, he added.
“The Peoples Minority Card will serve as a practical step toward social equality and interfaith harmony in Balochistan,” said the Chief Minister, expressing confidence that the empowerment of minority groups will further strengthen social cohesion across the province.
