ISLAMABAD, Pakistan: The Federal Minister for Human Rights Dr. Shireen Mazari attended the one-day “Inter-faith Conference for Young Women” in Islamabad on Thursday as the Chief Guest.
The Conference was organized by the Inter-faith Harmony Council, Jamia Ashrafia and Diocese of Peshawar, Church of Pakistan.
While addressing the audience, Dr. Shireen Mazari emphasized that our government has taken a rights-based approach to protect the rights of minorities guaranteed by the Constitution. She said that women and Minorities are amongst the most vulnerable sections of society and thus require special safeguards to ensure that their rights are protected.
Shireen Mazari further highlighted that the beauty of Pakistan lies in the diversity of people from various religious and social backgrounds which also enriches our society. She further reinforced that Islam gives us the responsibility to give respect to all religions.
The minister also stressed that Pakistan is among the Countries that provide personal laws to minorities including the Hindu Marriage Bill. She said that we have also prepared Christian Marriage and Divorced Bill by consulting relevant stakeholders who have acknowledged that there are several issues which are required to be resolved.
Dr. Shireen Mazari also highlighted some legislative measures taken by the present government to protect women’s rights like Anti-Rape Ordinance and Forced Conversion Marriages Bill.
The Chairman of Pakistan Ulema Council Maulana Tahir Ashrafi highlighted at the event women and girls play an important role in the reformation process. Every Prophet spread the message of peace and inter-faith harmony. The Constitution of Pakistan also provides equal rights to non-Muslims.
Maulana Tahir Ashrafi also mentioned that there is no concept of forced marriages in Islam.
The Conference was attended by a large number of women from different minority groups. The Chief Guest also distributed shields to the organizers.
