Meet Ramesh Singh Arora, first Sikh minister in Pakistan's Punjab

New Delhi: Ramesh Singh Arora, aged 48, has etched his name in history by becoming the first Sikh minister in Pakistan's Punjab province. Hailing from Narowal, Arora, a three-time Member Provincial Assembly (MPA), took the oath of office as a minister in the cabinet of the newly elected Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) government, led by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaf Sharif.

Arora's commitment to minority welfare

At the Governor’s House in Lahore, amidst a ceremonial swearing-in, Arora reaffirmed his unwavering dedication to the welfare of all minority groups residing in Pakistan. His focus encompasses Sikhs, Hindus, Christians, and other marginalized communities. Arora emphasized his determination to address the challenges faced by these minority communities, including the implementation of the Sikh Marriage Act and the establishment of a 2 percent minority quota in educational institutions.

Pakistan gets its first Sikh minister

Ramesh Singh Arora takes oath as minister in Punjab

Well done, Maryam Nawaz Sharif pic.twitter.com/31V9U6wqRN

— omar r quraishi (@omar_quraishi) March 6, 2024

What is Ramesh Arora's background and future vision?

Prior to his political journey, Arora served in various capacities, including as the chief of the Pakistan Sikh Gurudwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC). His professional background includes entrepreneurship and social work, with notable contributions to poverty alleviation through initiatives like the Mojaz Foundation.

Arora's appointment aligns with broader efforts to foster religious harmony and amplify minority voices in governance. He envisions promoting tourism to religious sites like Kartarpur Sahib and addressing the concerns of dwindling Sikh and Hindu populations in Pakistan.

Embraces teachings of Guru Nanak

Despite facing scrutiny due to his religious identity, Arora remains steadfast in his commitment to Guru Nanak's principles of universal humanity. His appointment signifies a pivotal stride towards inclusive governance and religious tolerance in Pakistan, particularly in a landscape where minority representation has been historically limited.

Symbolizing cultural exchange

During his oath-taking ceremony, a delegation from India, attending the World Punjabi Conference in Lahore, presented a traditional 'phulkari' dupatta to Marriyum Aurangzeb, PML-N’s secretary of information. This gesture underscores the spirit of cultural exchange and goodwill between Pakistan and India, fostering bonds beyond borders.