Islamabad: Punjab Minister for Minorities Affairs Ramesh Singh Arora has emphasized that minorities are an integral part of Pakistan’s identity, having contributed significantly to its development, prosperity, and stability since its inception. In an exclusive interview with Radio Pakistan’s Lahore Correspondent Ghulam Haider, Arora highlighted the remarkable contributions of notable figures like Sardar Hari Singh, S.P. Singha, and Jogendra Nath Mandal during the creation of Pakistan. He noted that even today, individuals from minority communities are actively participating in national development.
According to Radio Pakistan, Arora praised the role of minorities in promoting the Urdu language and fostering cultural harmony. He commended the initiatives led by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, noting the 250 percent increase in the minority development budget and the issuance of minority identity cards. Arora mentioned that official ceremonies are organized on minority religious festivals, and a Minorities Day was celebrated in the Punjab Assembly.
Addressing India’s recent actions, Arora criticized the Indian government for endangering regional peace through its Hindutva-based ideology. He affirmed that Pakistan’s armed forces have provided a robust response and emphasized the country’s readiness to defend its sovereignty. Arora expressed his appreciation for Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, the Pakistan Air Force, Navy, and other security institutions for their response.
Arora urged the international community to consider the implications of India’s aggressive stance, noting that the region’s vast population makes any escalation globally significant. He highlighted the Kartarpur Corridor as a symbol of interfaith unity, where people from diverse religious backgrounds collaborate peacefully. Arora condemned India’s decision to close the corridor, stating that Pakistan remains open to Indian Sikh Yatrees, continuing to support religious tourism.
He also lauded Radio Pakistan’s role in promoting positive narratives, recognizing its contribution to the country’s development and prosperity.