Maryam pledges to uphold principles of parliamentary democracy

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sunday pledged to uphold the principles of parliamentary democracy on the International Day of Parliamentary System of Government.

In her message, she said, “Parliament is the cornerstone of our democracy and it is the guardian of sterling principles of justice and equality.”

She added, “Parliamentary system ensures transparency, accountability and representation of people in governance. Everyone and every institution should play a vigorous role in striving to strengthen parliamentary institutions. I pay tribute to the members of national and provincial assemblies in this regard. Those parliamentarians who endeavoured to uphold the values of democracy and justice are highly praiseworthy.”

The CM said, “A strong parliament is inevitable for protection of human rights. A parliamentary democracy thrives with the active participation of citizens. The power of democracy lies in the strength of parliamentary institutions. A Parliamentary Development Unit and a Research Centre has been established in the Punjab Assembly. A Parliamentary Development Unit will provide assistance to the assembly members according to democratic tenets.”

Separately, CM Maryam ordered for starting registration process of ‘Dastak’ representatives. Opportunities for acquiring dignified employments for lakhs of youths across Punjab would be generated with the launch of the step for public facilitation.

Maryam said, “We will gradually expand the scope of ‘Maryam Ki Dastak Programme’ to all districts. Working has been started with regard to gradually increasing the services of ‘Maryam Ki Dastak Program’ from 10 to 65. The people will be provided all the services at their homes instead of frequently visiting various offices.”

She added, “Dastak programme will not only provide services to people by sitting at their homes but also eliminate corruption and exploitation.” The CM said, “Punjab has stepped into the revolutionary era of digitalization and we will introduce further positive and highly useful changes. We are bringing a lot of ease among the lives of the people with the help information technology and artificial intelligence.”

She added, “Lakhs of youth representatives will render their services as a facilitator in the Dastak program. The youths can earn thousands of rupees with dignity with the provision of ‘Dastak’ services. Original CNIC, minimum 18 years of age, intermediate as minimum educational qualification and mobile phone, along with an internet connection, are essential to meet the eligibility criteria for becoming a ‘Dastak’ representative.”

The CM said, “A clearance certificate from the relevant police station, a personal motorcycle and holding a valid licence will be mandatory to meet the eligibility criteria for being a ‘Dastak’ representative. The ‘Dastak’ representatives, on being selected on merit, will also be imparted training.”