Christmas celebrations: Minority receive same facilities as majority, says Azma Bokhari

LAHORE: Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari said that the Christian community is very close to the heart of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz who does not consider people of any other religion as minorities.

Under Maryam Nawaz’s government, minorities receive the same facilities as the majority. She made these remarks during a ceremony held in honour of the Christian community at 90 Shahrah-e-Quid-e-Azam.

She said, “Today, I am representing Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz at this magnificent Christmas event, and I am delighted to be here. Undoubtedly, Christmas is a very significant day for all of us. The Punjab government has taken numerous steps for religious minorities, including the introduction of minority cards, which will be a significant milestone. Additionally, the Christmas grant has been increased.”

She also mentioned that the day before, during an important meeting, chaired by the chief minister, strict instructions were given to the district administration and all DCs to ensure robust security arrangements at all churches on Christmas and to leave no stone unturned in terms of cleanliness and decoration.

She emphasized that this event is not only for the Christian community but also for the Punjab government. CM Maryam personally visited Maryamabad on Easter and participated in Baisakhi celebrations with the Sikh community. She celebrated Diwali with the Hindu community.

Azma Bokhari extended an invitation to all participants to attend a cultural event at Alhambra Hall on December 25, stating, “The coincidence of the birthdays of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Mian

Nawaz Sharif, and Christmas on the same day has multiplied our joy.”