QUETTA : Balochistan Governor Jafar Khan Mandokhel, addressing a Christmas celebration at the Governor House, emphasized the province’s longstanding tradition of religious coexistence and the constitutional guarantee of equal citizenship for all Pakistanis.
Speaking at the event attended by Minority MPA Sanjay Kumar, Parliamentary Secretaries Liaquat Lehri and Roshan Khurshid, and representatives from various minority communities, Governor Mandokhel stated it was a pleasure to host the gathering. He highlighted that the doors of the Governor House have remained open to all citizens since his first day in office.
“Our province has cherished wonderful values and traditions of coexistence and mutual respect among people of different nations and religions for centuries,” the Governor remarked. He stressed that these traditions are powerfully reinforced by the Constitution of Pakistan, which guarantees equal status to all citizens regardless of faith, a principle he called the “cornerstone of our democracy.”
Mandokhel praised the spirit of interfaith harmony, noting that sharing each other’s joys, sorrows, and festivals is a source of pride and a “ray of hope.” He specifically paid tribute to the Christian community for their invaluable contributions in the fields of education and health within Quetta.
The Governor reiterated a firm commitment to promoting interfaith understanding, respect for differing opinions, and peaceful coexistence. He assured the attendees that minorities are considered brothers and sisters, living happily across all districts of Balochistan.
“Pakistan is our common homeland, and its development requires our joint efforts,” Mandokhel stated. He promised that his office would continue to provide equal protection and opportunities for all and would persistently raise minority issues with the government and relevant authorities.
The event concluded with the Governor extending his congratulations to the organizers for the Christmas program, reinforcing a message of unity and shared celebration.
Meanwhile the Balochistan government has issued a comprehensive schedule for winter vacations for all public and private schools across the province, introducing separate timetables for cold and warm climate zones.
