Daily Times

ISLAMABAD: The government on Saturday issued a postage stamp to recognise the services of prominent Christian leader, Dewan Bahadur S P Singha.

In this connection, a ceremony was held at Aiwan-e-Sadr, which was well attended by Christian community and others.

Speaking on the occasion, President Mamnoon Hussain said that dynamic nations always remember those who serve their country. He said Dewan Bahadur had rendered unforgettable services for the establishment of Pakistan for which the nation was thankful to him. He said the commemorative postage stamp being issued in recognition of his services was a proof that Pakistani nation always lauded its heroes whether they belong to the majority or minority communities.

“Be it the movement for creation of Pakistan or the phase of its building, minorities, particular the Christian community has played a stellar role in close collaboration with the whole nation,” the president added.

After the creation of Pakistan, the scope of services by the Christian community was further widened and our brethren have rendered extraordinary services not only in the fields of education and health but also in the defence of the cournty. It shows that all communities of the country work hand in hand to serve Pakistan,” he remarked.

“We are proud of the fact that all citizens were equal in the eyes of the state as was stated by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in his speech delivered on August 11 wherein all citizens of Pakistan were assured of equal rights without discrimination.”

He admitted that during the last few years, minorities went through some traumatic incidents the purpose of which was to vitiate the wonderful atmosphere of religious harmony and tolerance in the country. He, however, said the Pakistani people thwarted these evil designs through their unity.

He said Islam does not allow anyone to usurp the rights of minorities and the elements propagating hatred deserve severe punishment. He warned the misguided elements to desist from their nefarious activities.

He mentioned various steps taken by the government of Pakistan for the welfare of the minorities including allocation of seats for minorities in legislative assemblies, 5% quota in jobs, facility of leave to minority employees on the occasion of their religious festivals, establishment of Minorities Welfare Fund, scholarships for minority students, arrangements for renovation and maintenance of religious places, setting up of National Commission for Minorities and celebration of Minorities Day officially.

The president reaffirmed his resolve that no stone would be left unturned in promoting religious harmony by upholding these constitutional and legal measures for the protection of minorities. He congratulated the government on issuing a commemorative postage stamp in recognition of the services of Dewan Bahadur.

He pledged that all-out effort will be taken for the safety and progress of minorities.

Minister for Ports and Shipping Kamran Michael, Dr Alexander Bishop John Malick and Bishop Azad Marshall also spoke on the occasion and paid tributes to the services of Dewan Bahadur.