In recognition of Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, Pakistan's respected minister of human rights and minorities, a special community town hall was organized in New York to celebrate his steadfast dedication to promoting equal rights and strengthening minority populations. The gathering, which was arranged by Sajid Tarar, the chairman of Muslims of America, and Jasdeep Singh, the chairman of Sikhs of America, provided a forum for important conversations about social inclusion, interfaith harmony, and minority rights.

A common goal of equality and justice drew together activists, community leaders, and representatives of different faith groups in the town hall. As Pakistan's first Sikh representative in the Punjab Assembly in more than 60 years, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora has continuously pushed for inclusive policies and legislative changes, serving as a ray of hope for minorities. In addition to bolstering religious minorities' rights in Pakistan, his work has established a standard for increased representation and involvement in the national conversation.

Originating from Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Sikhism's founder, Guru Nanak, Arora was greatly impacted by the principles of service and equality. He attended the University of the Punjab to further his education, gaining the information and abilities necessary to effectively serve his society. Arora made history in 2013 when he was elected as Punjab's first Sikh member of the Provincial Assembly (MPA) in 63 years. He played a key role in the unanimous approval of the Sikh Marriage Registration Act 2017, which made Pakistan the first nation to formally record Sikh marriages under its regulations. He served from 2013 to 2018.

After running for re-election, he was named as Punjab's Minister for Human Rights and Minorities on March 6, 2024, becoming the first Sikh to hold such a position in the province's history.

Promoting religious harmony 

In his speech, Minister Arora underlined the value of promoting harmony amongst various religious communities and the necessity of guaranteeing equal opportunity for all individuals, irrespective of their background or faith. He outlined the government's efforts to support social cohesion, safeguard the rights of minorities, and advance religious freedom. He urged the American Sikh community to travel to Pakistan and promised them impenetrable security.

Many Sikh Americans within the audience talked about their experiences traveling to Pakistan and the tremendous kindness and compassion they experienced there.

Tributes to Arora's dedication

“Minister Arora's dedication to minority empowerment and human rights is a testament to his leadership," said Sajid Tarar. All those pursuing justice and equality might find encouragement in his work. Similar views were expressed by Jasdeep Singh, who emphasized the value of communication and respect for one another in creating a society that is more inclusive.

Attendees had the chance to participate in candid conversations during the event, offering their worries, insights, and suggestions for a more just future. Members of the community praised Minister Arora's initiative and urged more cooperation to address the difficulties Pakistan's minorities confront.

 The visit by Minister Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora was a potent reminder of the strides being made and the remaining tasks necessary to bring about true equality and inclusivity in Pakistan.

(The author is a Virginia-based Pakistani American technologist pursuing his Ph.D. in artificial intelligence (AI). He is the founder and CEO of DeepTech Ventures. Views expressed are personal. He can be reached at khurampk@gmail.com)