Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has called for a collective strategy to counter prejudice and incitement, urging all segments of society to work together for the promotion of tolerance, peace and mutual respect.
In her message on the International Day for Countering Hate Speech, the chief minister appealed to the youth to play their role in curbing the growing spread of hate content, misinformation and extremist tendencies on social media platforms.
She reaffirmed the commitment to eliminate hatred, prejudice and narrow-mindedness from society and stressed the need to promote the values of peace, love and brotherhood during the holy month of Muharram instead of divisive and hateful rhetoric.
Maryam Nawaz said the rapid dissemination of hate content through social media and digital platforms had become one of the greatest challenges of the modern age. She noted that hate speech posed a serious threat to human rights and often led to violence and social fragmentation.
The chief minister said it was imperative to reject hateful narratives and foster tolerance, peace and mutual respect within society. She emphasized that preventing hatred in all its forms whether based on religion, ethnicity, gender or nationality was key to achieving global harmony.
She observed that hate speech fuels division, unrest and violence in societies, adding that efforts to curb religious, ethnic and gender-based hatred were fundamental to ensuring peaceful coexistence.
Referring to Islamophobia, CM Punjab described it as one of the most dangerous forms of hate-driven behavior. She asserted that no one should be allowed to sow the seeds of hatred among people and maintained that holding accountable those who spread hatred under the guise of freedom of expression was indispensable.
Separately, Maryam Nawaz on Thursday directed authorities to ensure the best possible arrangements and strict security measures during Ashura of Muharram-ul-Haram across the province.
Chairing a review of preparations, the chief minister ordered the formulation of a comprehensive security plan to maintain law and order.
In view of the intense heat, she also directed officials to make special arrangements for the provision of cold drinking water and beverages for mourners.
CM Punjab instructed the Suthra Punjab programme administration to ensure water sprinkling along the routes of processions and directed that Rescue 1122, field hospitals and clinics-on-wheels remain available round the clock on the routes of processions and at congregation venues.
She said QR code panic button facilities were being provided at more than 4,700 imambargahs across the province. According to the chief minister, the facility would enable immediate and timely assistance in any emergency situation. “Protection of the life and property of citizens will be ensured at all costs,” she said.
The chief minister said Muharram-ul-Haram teaches patience, perseverance, love and brotherhood, adding that mourners participating in processions and religious gatherings would be provided with a safe and peaceful environment.
She further said that more than 124,000 police personnel and 15,000 Rangers officials would perform security duties across the province during Muharram-ul-Haram.
Moreover, Turkish First Lady Emine Erdo?an, wife of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdo?an, has sent a special letter to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, inquiring after her health and wishing her a speedy recovery.
In her letter, Emine Erdo?an stated that she was concerned to learn about CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s health condition and surgery. She assured that they were ready to extend every possible support regarding her treatment.
Expressing her good wishes, the Turkish First Lady prayed for the chief minister’s early and complete recovery. She also conveyed her goodwill and best wishes for the people of Pakistan.
The letter reflects the cordial relations and mutual goodwill between Pakistan and Türkiye.