LAHORE – Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has reaffirmed her government’s commitment to supporting widows across the province, emphasizing that these women deserve dignity, empowerment, and real assistance—not just sympathy.
In her heartfelt message on International Widows Day, CM Maryam highlighted that Islam grants widows full rights, respect, and honor. She stressed that society must not abandon widowed women but should stand by them with meaningful support.
She further pointed out that the grief of women widowed by ongoing conflicts in Kashmir, Gaza, and now Iran is a challenge to global conscience. Their suffering, she added, calls for more than words—it requires action through policies and support systems.
Under the “Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar” initiative, widows and single mothers are being given top priority for housing, allowing them to live independently with dignity. In addition, their children are receiving special consideration through the “Honhaar Scholarship” program to ensure their education continues smoothly.
CM Maryam also directed the Women Protection Authority and Social Welfare Department to strengthen their support for widows and ensure they receive all possible government services and benefits without delay.
Concluding her statement, the Chief Minister vowed that no widow in Punjab should feel abandoned. “The state will walk beside every widow, offering strength, care, and security at each step of her journey,” she said.