Sikhs Exempted from Helmet Requirement
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif announced that Sikhs will not have to wear helmets while riding motorcycles. She said their religious practice of wearing turbans requires this exemption. Alongside this, she raised the number of minority welfare cards from 75,000 to 100,000. These cards provide housing, scholarships, and access to social programs for minorities across Punjab.
Speaking at a Christmas ceremony at the Cathedral Church, Maryam Nawaz stressed that a minority-friendly Punjab should be everyone’s goal. Making Punjab inclusive is our collective responsibility, especially for Muslims, who form the majority, she said. I have a duty to ensure minorities enjoy equal access to Punjab’s resources, reflecting our province’s diversity.
Celebrating Minority Festivals
The Chief Minister highlighted that government programs now officially recognize minority holidays. Cities across Punjab were decorated for Christmas, featuring large Christmas trees and Santa Claus figures in public spaces such as Liberty Chowk in Lahore.
She praised her father, former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, and his mentor for their long-standing support for minority welfare. Maryam Nawaz also recalled her convent school education, where she learned to respect other religions—a value reinforced by her Sikh faith and her parents.
Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said that if anyone oppresses a minority, I will stand as their witness. My father taught me tolerance and respect for minorities, and I am grateful for his lessons, she said.
Minority Contributions Across Sectors
Maryam Nawaz emphasized minorities’ key roles in Pakistan, particularly Christians, who have contributed in the judiciary, education, healthcare, and armed forces. The names of notable minority figures remain engraved in golden letters in our institutions, she said. A civilized society depends on justice and minority protection. I base every decision on fairness and humanity.
She highlighted her government’s Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar (My Roof, My Home) program, which provides housing to minority families without asking about religion. Programs like Dhee Rani, ration cards, Honhaar Scholarships, and farmer support cards are also open to all citizens.
During a scholarship ceremony in Lodhran, a Christian girl named Maryam received the Honhaar Scholarship. Maryam Nawaz recalled, Seeing her joy reminded me why inclusion matters.
Upholding Minority Rights
Maryam Nawaz contrasted Punjab’s policies with reports from India, where Muslim women have faced veil restrictions. She said, Pakistan and Punjab truly honor minorities. Protecting their dignity is my responsibility. She added, The government’s success depends on minorities feeling safe. Anyone who harms or infringes on their rights will face the full force of the law.
She stressed that governments failing to defend minorities should step aside. She also announced that Punjab increased its budget for minority programs by 600 percent. Government workers visit churches to support communities during Christmas.
A Pledge for Inclusive Governance
Maryam Nawaz concluded with a pledge: As long as I serve as Chief Minister, no minority will face injustice here. We share our joys and sorrows equally, and together we will prove that we are one community. Punjab must remain safe and inclusive for everyone.
Her announcements demonstrate Punjab’s commitment to integrating minority rights into social, educational, and economic programs. They aim to institutionalize equality and ensure every citizen benefits from the province’s resources.
