Rashid kicks off fund-raising campaign for quake victims
By Bushra Rafique

RAWALPINDI—Information Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed, in response to President General Pervez Musharraf's appeal, launched here Tuesday a week-long "Jholi Phelao Mohem" to collect donations for the quake victims. Sheikh Rashid Ahmed led a rally, which started from Lal Haveli and passed through Moti Bazar, Trunk Bazar, Talwara Bazar, Raja Bazar, Sabzi Mandi and Mochi Bazar to collect aid for the quake sufferers.
District Nazim, Raja Javeed Ikhlas, Union Council Nazims, Councilors and large number of people participated in the rally.
People responded very enthusiastically to the Minister's call and donated in cash. They appreciated the government's efforts for the early rehabilitation of the quake victims.
Speaking on the occasion, Sheikh Rashid said that people of the city have already donated generously to the quake-stricken people but they still need more help and support.
While appreciating the spirit of people, he said that they have to make a sustained effort to aid their brethren. He said during the seven-day campaign they would visit all bazaars, markets and shopping centers of the city to raise funds.
Sheikh Rashid called on all political parties to give positive response to the President's aid appeal. Later, the Minister also distributed 10 rickshaws, purchased with Zakat fund, among the poor and needy in Lal Kurti area.