Lahore: Senior Minister Punjab Marriyum Aurangzeb reaffirmed the provincial government’s firm commitment to safeguarding children, stating that practical steps are being taken for their protection and welfare under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. She emphasized that the Punjab government maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy toward child abuse and exploitation, calling child violence a “red line” for the chief minister.
Aurangzeb made these remarks while addressing a World Children’s Day ceremony organized by the Child Protection and Welfare Bureau (CPWB) in collaboration with UNICEF Pakistan at the Old Punjab Assembly. The event was hosted by Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Ahmad Khan, with the senior minister serving as the chief guest.
During her address, Aurangzeb lauded CPWB Chairperson Sarah Ahmad for her continuous efforts, describing the approval of Pakistan’s first-ever Child Protection Policy as a “historic milestone.” She also thanked UNICEF Pakistan for supporting the establishment of Child Protection Units in seven Punjab districts.
The ceremony was attended by Secretary Home Ahmed Javed Qazi, provincial ministers, MPAs, UNICEF representatives, members of the Child Rights Caucus, Board of Governors members, actress and child rights activist Nadia Jamil, and other distinguished guests.
In a landmark moment, children conducted a formal assembly session— the first such initiative in the history of the Punjab Assembly—and presented their charter of demands to the chief guest. The audience was also captivated by their speeches, theatrical performances, and tableaus.
CPWB Chairperson Sarah Ahmad delivered a detailed briefing on the Bureau’s achievements and ongoing initiatives. She noted that all necessary facilities are being provided to children under CPWB’s care and highlighted the provincial government’s approval of the Child Protection Policy as a major step forward. She also commended the Speaker of the Punjab Assembly for establishing the first-ever Child Rights Caucus to defend children’s rights.
“Safe children guarantee a safe future for our nation,” Sarah Ahmad said, adding that the Bureau continues to work tirelessly for the rehabilitation and welfare of children affected by violence, abuse, and exploitation. She acknowledged UNICEF Pakistan’s ongoing support in expanding Child Protection Units across the province.
Participants praised the CPWB chairperson for her unwavering dedication to child rights. The event concluded with the presentation of honorary shields to distinguished guests.