Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Thursday announced an increase in minority cards from 75,000 to 100,000, calling it a Christmas gift for the Christian community and reaffirming the government’s commitment to protect minority rights.

Addressing a Christmas ceremony at the Cathedral Church in Lahore, the chief minister congratulated the Christian community and said issues related to minority graveyards across Punjab would be resolved on a priority basis.

“If any injustice is committed against a minority, the state will act with its full authority,” she said, stressing zero tolerance for abuse or discrimination.

CM Maryam said Pakistan’s strength lay in unity, adding that citizens should be seen not as Muslims, Christians, Sikhs or Hindus, but as Pakistanis.

She praised the role of the Christian community in the country’s development and said her decisions were guided by humanity and justice.

Referring to road safety rules, the chief minister said helmet laws were enforced to protect lives but acknowledged the Sikh community’s religious concerns. She said exemptions were granted after Sikh leaders said they could not remove their turbans.

During the ceremony, the chief minister also distributed minority cards and cheques for Christmas grants among members of the Christian community.

Officials said the measures were part of the provincial government’s broader policy to improve welfare and inclusion of religious minorities.