ISLAMABAD:Federal Minister for Law and Justice and Human Rights Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar Advocate has said that the National Commission for Minority Rights Act 2025 is an important legislative development for the protection of minority rights and the effective resolution of issues faced by minority communities. He said that extensive consultations were held with Pakistan's religious minority communities during the preparation of the law, and a consensus-based draft was formulated after nearly two years of consultations, taking into account the proposals and views of different religious communities.
Addressing the National Interfaith Harmony and Peace Conference organised by the Islamabad High Court Bar Association, Azam Nazeer Tarar said that, in his capacity as Minister for Law and Justice and Human Rights, he had led the legislative process. He added that the process for nomination and appointment of the Chairman and members of the National Commission was underway through the Prime Minister of Pakistan and the Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly. He expressed the expectation that the Commission would become functional in the coming weeks.
Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar said that the Government of Pakistan was fully committed to protecting the rights of all citizens and promoting religious harmony in fulfillment of its constitutional, legal, ethical and official responsibilities. He said that the protection of religious freedom, equal rights and human dignity was fundamental to a peaceful and united society.
Referring to the historic address of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah on August 11, 1947, the Federal Minister said that every citizen in Pakistan enjoys the freedom to practise and worship according to their faith. He said that Article 20 of the Constitution of Pakistan guarantees religious freedom, Article 25 provides for equality before the law, while Article 36 safeguards the rights and interests of minorities.
The Federal Minister said that religious minorities in Pakistan had made significant contributions to national development in various fields, including education, health, public service, the judiciary and the armed forces.
He said that promoting religious harmony was not limited to legislation alone, but also required collective responsibility, education, responsible religious leadership and meaningful dialogue.
He urged bar associations to play their role in this national responsibility by promoting legal awareness and supporting vulnerable segments of society.
Azam Nazeer Tarar described Pakistan's longstanding relations with the Holy See (Vatican) as important and appreciated its role in promoting interfaith dialogue and peaceful coexistence.
Minister of State for Law and Justice Barrister Aqeel Malik also attended the conference.