In a first, Sikh lawmaker becomes parliamentary secretary

LAHORE: For the first time in Pakistan’s history, a Sikh lawmaker has been appointed as a parliamentary secretary. Department of Sardar Mahinder Pal Singh, a member of Punjab Assembly, is likely to be announced in the next couple of days.

Speaking to Express News on Tuesday, Singh said the decision was an evidence of freedom and rights minorities were enjoying in the country.

He said an increasing number of representatives from different minority groups were being given key responsibilities, referring to appointment of a Sikh youth as Public Relations Officer (PRO) of Punjab governor in the recent past.
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A Hindu woman has also been appointed as a civil judge in Sindh, which is a clear sign of the nation’s trust on its minorities, he added.

Before being given the key responsibility, Singh had been making waves in the Punjab Assembly owing to his Sikh background coupled with his overt patriotism.

He was draped in green and white turban during his oath-taking ceremony. The patriotic turban drew the attention of the entire house.

Singh was elected MPA on a reserved seat for minorities on a Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf ticket from Multan.

Source: The Express Tribune