RIYADH — "We must discourage all forms of harassment/bullying whether verbal, physical, social or cyber. Society must come forward and play its role. Media and government must create awareness among people and guide them to secure affected persons," said motivational speaker ti in a seminar held by the literary, cultural and social forum Bazm-e-Riaz. Pakistani Military & Defense Attaché Brig. Shahid Manzoor was the chief guest, Community Welfare Attaché Abdul Shakoor Sheikh was the special guest with prominent community members attending. The seminar formally began with the recitation of verses from the Qur'an by Faisal Alvi followed by a Naat presented by Asghar Chishti. Secretary General Tanveer Mian conducted the program. Prolific writer and Bazm's senior executive Prof. Tasneem Amjad gave the welcome address, stating, "Bazm is all about positivity and trying for betterment in society through its several programs." She also highlighted the positive roles and attributes of women on International Women's Day. President Bazm-e-Riaz and keynote speaker Gilani talked on harassment/bullying. He highlighted the types, causes, impact and effective manners of handling bullying, while emphasizing that this phenomenon is common in all societies and countries around the world and stressed on the need of creating awareness among the people and society. Gilani explained, "It not only affects the current life of persons but also causes psychological problems impacting the career and future of those bullied or harassed. We must come forward to keenly observe our children and even elders for any behavioral changes and take immediate measures," he said. Gilani was very upbeat about the Bazm's role. "We are ready to offer our volunteer services towards our nation and society, when and wherever needed," he added. Bazm's head of core committee, Waqar Naseem Wamiq presented a poetry on this subject, Brig. Shahid and Abid Shamoon Chand presented a gift of the book "Zarb-e-Qalum," written by famous Pakistani journalist Ashfaq Niazi, to Wamiq for his literary contributions. Chief Guest Brig, Shahid appreciated the motivational lecture of Tasadduq Gilani and praised the efforts of Bazm-e-Riaz. "It's our duty to create awareness about the harmful effect of harassment and bullying so that the common peoples can benefit and protect themselves from such acts," he said. Bazm's senior executive and a talented singer Naqi Hassan enthralled the audience while Bazm's senior executive Dr. Saeed Ahmed Waince presented some couplets of Mian Muhammad Baksh. Bazm's Advisor Riaz Rathore gave the vote of thanks and stressed on the importance of implementation of cognizance. "We must begin at our home by giving respect, confidence and valuing the rights to our loved ones whether it is our wife, daughter, son, brother, sister or parents. We can bring positive change in the society once we implement these responsibilities on ourselves," Rathore said.
