News Desk
Peshawar: 11 August 2025
Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi has said that Pakistan’s true strength lies in its unity, and that social harmony, tolerance, and mutual respect form the foundation of a strong and peaceful society. He urged all segments of society to work together to eliminate hatred, prejudice, and discrimination.
The Governor was speaking as chief guest at a ceremony held at the Governor House, Peshawar, to mark National Minorities Day. The event was attended by Member of Provincial Assembly Baba Ji Gurpal Singh, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) KP President Muhammad Ali Shah Bacha, Bishop Humphrey Sarfaraz Peters of the Church of Pakistan Peshawar Diocese, Hindu religious scholar Haroon Sarab Diyal, as well as men and women from the Christian, Hindu, and Sikh communities.
The program began with the national anthem, followed by speeches from minority leaders who shared proposals for the welfare, protection, and rights of religious minorities across Pakistan, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. They highlighted the historic contributions of minorities since the creation of Pakistan and praised President Asif Ali Zardari and the PPP leadership for officially recognising August 11 as National Minorities Day. Attendees also commended Governor Kundi for his efforts to bridge the gap between the Governor House and the public.
Welcoming the minority communities to the Governor House, Kundi noted that this was the second consecutive year the National Minorities Day ceremony was being held at the venue. He lauded the role of minority communities in Pakistan’s progress, stability, and cultural diversity, and stressed that the Constitution guarantees equal rights to all citizens regardless of religion, colour, or ethnicity. He assured that the government would ensure effective implementation of laws protecting minorities and would take all possible measures to promote their social, economic, and educational development.
Kundi added that safeguarding the rights of minorities is not only the government’s duty but a collective responsibility of the nation. He reiterated the PPP’s commitment to defending minority rights and called for celebrating Independence Day on August 14 with even greater spirit, linking it to the sacrifices made under Operation Baniyan al-Marsous. He also assured that the recommendations and demands presented during the ceremony would be given serious consideration.
The event was organised by the Pakistan Peoples Party Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Minority Wing, led by Yousaf George, Yasir Bhatti, Arif Khokhar, Karamat Ghouri, Hanook, and Saira.