Karachi
Adviser to the Chief Minister of Sindh on Minority Affairs, Dr. Sham Sunder Advani, has reaffirmed the Sindh government’s strong commitment to protecting the rights of minorities and eliminating all forms of discrimination and injustice against them. He stated that injustices against minorities in Sindh will not be tolerated under any circumstances, and concrete steps are being taken to ensure that minority communities receive their legitimate rights and equal opportunities in society.

Dr. Sham Sunder Advani expressed these views during a meeting with a delegation of Pak Soch newspaper at his office. During the interaction, he highlighted various initiatives introduced by the Sindh government for the welfare, empowerment, and uplift of minority communities, particularly those belonging to underdeveloped and marginalized backgrounds.

He said that the Sindh government has launched several financial assistance programs aimed specifically at improving the socio-economic conditions of backward minority communities. These programs are designed to support vulnerable families, enhance livelihoods, and provide economic stability to those who have long remained deprived of basic opportunities. According to Dr. Advani, special attention is being given to the “Marvi” communities and other underprivileged minority groups to bring them into the mainstream of development.

Addressing the issue of unemployment, Dr. Sham Sunder Advani stated that unemployed minority youth in Sindh are being provided quotas in government jobs. He emphasized that employment is a fundamental right and a key factor in ensuring dignity and self-reliance. The provincial government, he said, is strictly implementing job quotas for minorities across various departments so that educated and skilled minority youth can secure respectable employment and contribute positively to society.

He further added that minorities are also being given due representation in educational institutions. Quotas have been allocated for minority students in admissions to colleges, universities, and professional institutions across Sindh. In addition, minority students are being provided scholarships to help them continue their education without financial burden. Dr. Advani said that these scholarships are not only meant to reduce dropout rates but also to encourage higher education among minority youth, enabling them to compete on equal footing with others.

“Our primary objective is to completely eliminate the sense of deprivation and marginalization among minority communities,” Dr. Sham Sunder Advani said. “We are not only making policies, but we are also ensuring their effective implementation on the ground. The Sindh government believes that true progress is not possible unless every segment of society moves forward together.”

Speaking about the issue of illegal occupation of minority properties, Dr. Advani said that the provincial government is taking the matter very seriously. He revealed that special instructions have been issued to Deputy Commissioners in all districts to remove illegal encroachments from minority-owned properties. He stressed that protecting the religious, residential, and commercial properties of minorities is a top priority of the Sindh government.

He said that minority issues are being addressed on a priority basis at the district and provincial levels. Dedicated mechanisms are in place to ensure swift action on complaints related to forced occupations, discrimination, or denial of rights. “We want minorities to feel safe, respected, and confident that the state stands firmly with them,” he added.

Dr. Advani also emphasized that the Sindh government is working tirelessly to promote equality and harmony in society. He stated that creating an inclusive environment where minorities enjoy equal rights is not just a constitutional obligation but also a moral responsibility. Sindh, he said, has always been known for its culture of tolerance, peace, and coexistence, and the current government is committed to upholding these values.

He further noted that interfaith harmony and mutual respect among different communities are being actively promoted through awareness programs and engagement with religious and community leaders. Such efforts, he said, help strengthen social cohesion and counter negative perceptions and prejudices.

Concluding his remarks, Dr. Sham Sunder Advani reiterated that the Sindh government remains fully committed to ensuring equality for minorities in all spheres of life. “Our goal is to provide minorities with equal status in society, protect their rights, and empower them socially and economically. The Sindh government will continue to work relentlessly to build a just, inclusive, and prosperous province for all,” he said.