Lahore (Bureau Report):
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has announced a special Christmas bonus equal to one month’s salary for Christian employees of the Alhamra Arts Council.
A special ceremony was held at Alhamra Arts Council, Lahore, to mark Christmas celebrations. Provincial Minister for Information and Culture Punjab, Azma Bukhari, attended the event as the chief guest, while Parliamentary Secretary for Information and Culture Shazia Rizwan was also present.
During the ceremony, Azma Bukhari met with Christian employees, extended Christmas greetings, and distributed gifts on behalf of the Chief Minister. She also joined the employees in cutting a Christmas cake. Chairman Alhamra Razi Ahmed and Executive Director Alhamra Muhammad Nawaz Gondal were among the participants at the event.
Addressing the gathering, Azma Bukhari said that the Punjab government stands shoulder to shoulder with its Christian brothers and sisters in celebrating Christmas. She emphasized that minorities hold a special place in the heart of the Chief Minister and described Christian employees as a source of pride whose services are highly commendable.
The provincial information minister stated that the Punjab government is utilizing all available resources to ensure the protection, welfare, and well-being of minority communities. She also appealed to the public to share their happiness with others on Christmas, noting that the festival conveys a message of love, peace, and harmony.