ISLAMABAD - Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Gulzar Ahmed Wednesday said that the constitution provides equal rights to the minorities and envisages religious and basic freedom.

The Chief Justice stated this while he was addressing as the chief guest at the seminar “Rights of minorities guaranteed by the Constitution of Pakistan 1973” organized by the Implementation Minority Rights Forum.

August 11 is observed as the National Minority Day to recall the vision of Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah and to reaffirm the commitment that despite belonging to different faiths, we are one nation. Events, seminars, and social gatherings are arranged across the country on the day by members of various religious minorities. Chief Justice Gulzar Ahmed said that the Constitution of Pakistan is a comprehensive document, Article 20 of the Constitution envisages religious and 
basic freedom to every citizen of the country.

He added that every religion in this country is free to establish their places of worship.

He said that there are some works to be undertaken by the federal government in order to ensure minorities’ rights, as enshrined in the law. He stated that the attorney general is a legal representative of the federal government and he may look into the demands made by the minority communities, while I can assist on the legal aspect of the matter, the CJP said.

The Chief Justice reassured the minorities in Pakistan that if any feudal lord imperils anyone from the minority community, the doors of the court are always open.

Referring Article 25, the Chief Justice said that all citizens in Pakistan are equal before the law and are provided equal protection. There is no discrimination between Muslim, Hindu, Christian, Sikh, or Bahai community.

He said that Articles 51, 59 and 106 of the Constitution provide quota for reserved seats for non-Muslims in Pakistan in National Assembly, Senate and the Provincial Assemblies. The minorities have quota, therefore, they should make efforts to reach the National Assembly, Senate and the Provincial Assemblies. Nobody can prevent them, adding if the landlord or anyone in their areas stops the minorities from reaching the assemblies then they could approach the courts or complain to the government and they are ready to help you.

He added that the minorities have certain privileges which are not even available to the Muslims that you can enjoy and avail by all means.