President of Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) Lahore, Malik Ahmad Akhwan, expressed deep concern over the ongoing 10-day protest by blind persons outside the Punjab Assembly. He said that their legitimate demands must be resolved without delay. He urged the government to extend the contracts of persons with disabilities, provide them employment, and fulfill all the demands of disabled persons protesting outside the Punjab Assembly. He added that treating persons with disabilities with kindness is a constitutional requirement.
He said that blind persons are a respected part of society, and in any civilized nation, protecting the rights of vulnerable and marginalized groups is the state’s fundamental responsibility. The blind protestors are demanding employment, regularization of contract workers, continuation of expired contracts, and fulfillment of promises previously made to them.
He stated that the Constitution grants equal rights to all citizens and obligates the state to provide facilities, employment opportunities, and protection to persons with disabilities. Malik Ahmad Akhwan expressed disappointment that blind individuals have been protesting outside the Punjab Assembly for the last 10 days, yet their demands are not even being heard. Ignoring their hardships and helplessness is a grave violation of humanitarian principles.
He said that the welfare of persons with disabilities and the protection of their rightful claims is a constitutional duty of the state. The Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught justice, cooperation, and respect for persons with disabilities and emphasized granting them an equal status in society. Serving persons with disabilities has been described as an act of virtue and worship.
Malik Ahmad Akhwan demanded immediate negotiations with representatives of the blind community, attentive hearing of their grievances, and prompt acceptance of their legitimate demands. He affirmed that Pakistan Awami Tehreek will continue to raise its voice at every level for the rights of marginalized groups.
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