Minorities in Pakistan are grappling with significant challenges that impact their daily lives, safety, and opportunities. On National Minorities Day, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) called on the government to address the rising incidents of hate and violence against these communities through decisive actions.
The HRCP emphasised the need to enforce the Supreme Court’s 2014 ruling by establishing an independent commission dedicated to minority rights and ensuring the protection of religious sites. In response to these ongoing issues, the HRCP has proposed the formation of a National Interfaith Working Group.
This group will consist of leaders from various religions, legal experts, journalists, and human rights activists, aiming to tackle these problems collaboratively.
The HRCP's demands are extensive.
They include implementing a ban on hate speech and mob violence, ensuring strict accountability for offenders, and providing compensation for victims. There is also a call for regulating religious seminaries to curb intolerance and addressing the misuse of blasphemy laws in the legislative process.
Additionally, the HRCP advocates for promoting equal citizenship through awareness campaigns, inclusive education, and the removal of discriminatory content from school curricula.
They also seek affirmative action in employment and politics for minorities, the criminalization of early marriages and forced conversions, and accurate census data with formal recognition of Buddhism.
Religious minorities, such as Christians, Hindus, and Ahmadis, often face marginalisation in both employment and education, which limits their opportunities for advancement.
The US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) also reports that these communities experience widespread intolerance, including derogatory remarks and exclusionary practices. The dangers faced by these groups are highlighted by targeted attacks that result in severe casualties.
Incidents of mob violence, frequently driven by false blasphemy accusations, further compound these threats. The case of Asia Bibi, a Christian woman who faced severe threats and legal battles due to blasphemy charges, exemplifies the gravity of these issues.
The misuse of blasphemy laws is a major concern, with these laws often being exploited to target minorities or settle personal disputes. The International Crisis Group has noted that such abuse of blasphemy laws frequently leads to wrongful accusations and exacerbates the plight of religious minorities in Pakistan.
The HRCP's call to action underscores the urgent need for the Pakistani government to demonstrate a firm commitment to protecting minority rights and addressing these pressing issues.
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