Equal Rights To All Citizens

Statement replying to a deputation of the Hindu members of the East Bengal Legislative Assembly, March 22, 1948

"I do not for a moment suggest that in the discharge of their duties the various departments of the Government could not do better. I should say that there is room for improvement in various directions. But in order to achieve that object, the last course is that the Hindus should in spirit and action whole-heartedly co-operate with the Government and its various branches of administration as Pakistanis, and if this spirit is created, it will be easy for the Government to discharge its functions smoothly."

He asked them to fully realize the fact that the Governments of East Bengal and Pakistan were now their own Governments. He assumed them that the object of the Government was to do its utmost for the welfare and happiness of the people. It was up to the people who had any grievances or complaints to approach the Government and ask for redress, instead of carrying on unnecessary propaganda which helped to create confusion in the press.
Concluding, the Quaid-i-Azam said: "All these matters to which you have drawn my attention are primarily the responsibility of the Provincial Government. I cannot possibly go into all this and sit in judgement over the administration by hearing your version only, nor have I got time during this short visit to do so. I will, however, pass on your representation to the Prime Minister for his consideration."