Naqvi says financial assistance to be provided to Jaranwala affectees

A delegation representing the Christian community’s leaders held a significant meeting with Caretaker Chief Minister of Punjab, Mohsin Naqvi, at the Chief Minister’s Office. Addressing the Christian community representatives, Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi strongly condemned the distressing incident in Jaranwala, underscoring that Friday sermons have consistently emphasized the rights of minorities in accordance with Islamic teachings and the wisdom of the Holy Prophet (PBUH). He reaffirmed that Pakistan, envisioned by Quaid-e-Azam, stands unwavering against such tragic occurrences. In order to ensure the lasting prevention of such incidents, a comprehensive policy is being formulated. Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi assured the delegation of proactive efforts to swiftly restore the affected churches to their original condition. Additionally, assessments are being made to gauge the extent of damage to destroyed homes, and financial assistance will be provided to affected families. The Chief Minister expressed resolve, citing the presence of evidence and video footage, to apprehend and bring the culprits of the tragedy to justice. He pledged determined action to ensure justice for the Jaranwala tragedy, asserting the responsibility of safeguarding the lives and property of the Christian community. Highlighting the imperative to prevent future tragedies, Chief Minister stressed that collective measures must be taken to cultivate tolerance, necessitating curriculum amendments to propagate awareness. He noted that scholars from diverse schools of thought have unequivocally denounced the Jaranwala incidents. The Chief Minister affirmed unwavering commitment to protect Christian families and restore the churches, underlining the importance of erasing the stain cast by the incident through united efforts. Detailed briefings regarding the Jaranwala incident were provided by IG Punjab and Additional Chief Secretary Home. The delegation of minority leaders, comprising Senator Kamran Michael, Bishop Azad Marshall, former MPA Shakeel Marcus Khokhar, Shahzad Gull, Pastor Jameel Nasir, Colonel McDonald Chandy, Pastor Anwar Fazal, Pastor Waseemullah Khokhar, Bishop Sebastian Shah, and others, conveyed their perspectives on the matter. Present at the occasion were Inspector General Police, Additional Chief Secretary Interior, Secretary Auqaf, Secretary Human Rights and Minority Affairs, Nadeem Raza and concerned authorities, including. Caretaker Chief Minister of Punjab, Mohsin Naqvi, conducted an extensive visit to Lower Mall Police Station today. During his inspection, Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi thoroughly examined various sections, including the control room, roof, and basement of the police station. Notably, he personally engaged with the operational processes, receiving a token from the machine at the front desk. Emphasizing the need for efficiency, Mohsin Naqvi instructed that updates on application progress at the front desk should also be communicated to complainants via email. He further visited the lock-up area and the quarters of constables, gaining firsthand insights into their working conditions. In a bid to enhance the police station’s standards, Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi urged the formulation of a comprehensive upgradation plan for Police Station Lower Mall within a span of two days. With a keen interest in preserving the historical essence of Lower Mall Police Station’s building, he engaged in discussions about potential renovation strategies, calling for input from various quarters. During this visit, IG Punjab, Dr. Usman Anwar, CCPO Bilal Siddique Kamiana, and DIG Operations Ali Nasir Rizvi offered detailed briefings to the caretaker Chief Minister. US Consul General in Lahore William K. Makaneole held a farewell meeting with caretaker Chief Minister Punjab Mohsin Naqvi at his office. During the meeting, they engaged in discussions concerning matters of mutual interest and the enhancement of bilateral relations. Makaneole conveyed his heartfelt appreciation to the people and province of Punjab, expressing his sentiments about his visits to all 32 districts. The outgoing Consul General’s tenure was lauded by Mohsin Naqvi who highlighted the invaluable contributions made by him towards strengthening bilateral relations during his time in Lahore. Notably, the cooperation extended by American entities, including USAID, in critical sectors such as health, was commended by the chief minister. Also, he informed that efforts were underway by the Central Business District Authority to establish a long-pending diplomatic enclave, signalling a positive step forward.