The chief minister of Pakistan's North West Province has assured the minority Hindu community that he will construct a 'shamshan ghat' (cremation ground) in Mardan district from his personal funds.
Chief Minister Ameer Haider Khan Hoti made the assurance to a delegation of the Hindu Balmik Community during a recent meeting at his office in Peshawar. The shamshan ghat will be constructed at Canal Road in Mardan.
"Our government believes in provision of equal rights to minorities. They have full freedom in observing worship in the province," Hoti said.
Following a demand from the delegation, Hoti directed authorities to make an estimate of the cost for constructing the shamshan ghat and said the expenditure would be borne from his personal fund.
The CM directed the commissioner of Mardan to submit a comprehensive report to him regarding the construction of residential quarters for the Hindu Balmik Community.
He also directed all departments to ensure the implementation of quotas reserved for minorities in government jobs.
The delegation apprised Hoti about other problems being faced by the community. It also assured full support to the provincial government on behalf of the Hindu community.
