LAHORE: Rich tributes were paid to former Punjab Governor Salmaan Taseer on his sixth death anniversary on Wednesday for his services for the marginalised segments of the society.
Civil society, human right activists and Pakistan People’s Party Punjab organised candlelight vigils to remember Salmaan Taseer as well as express solidarity with his family. The vigils were attended by family members, friends and a large number of well-wishers.
The main event was organised at Lalak Chowk in DHA, besides several gatherings in Youhanabad and other areas of the city. The Liberty Roundabout venue was changed due to security concerns in the wake of a rally planned by different religious organisations in the same area.
On the occasion, foolproof security arrangements were made for the participants of the vigils. Heavy contingents of police were deployed to avert any untoward incident.
It may be mentioned here that some miscreants had tried to disrupt a vigil being held at the Liberty Roundabout on the fourth death anniversary of Salmaan Taseer Shaheed two years back.
The participants of Wednesday’s vigils were carrying portraits of late Salmaan Taseer, besides placards inscribed with different slogans against extremism.
Human rights activist Diep Saeeda while talking to media on the occasion said that state should take strict action against extremists in the country and ensure implementation of the National Action Plan (NAP) in true letter and spirit.
PPP leader Jahanara Wattoo said that late Salmaan Taseer was a brave man who always stood for the rights of the downtrodden. She said PPP and the civil society were with the victim family.
The PPP Minority Wing also held a seminar in remembrance of slain governor Salmaan Taseer where speakers paid rich tributes to him.
