Persecution on Minorities in
Pakistan
Persecution of minorities in Pakistan refers to unjust treatment, discrimination, and violence faced by
individuals who belong to religious or ethnic minority groups.
Hindus: One of the largest minorities, Hindus face social exclusion and violence. Forced conversions,
particularly of Hindu women, and kidnappings are a concern. Many Hindus migrate due to these issues.
Attacks on Hindu temples and vandalism occur, often fueled by rumors or accusations. In 2020, a Hindu
temple in Sindh was attacked by a mob over a minor dispute. Discrimination in employment and land
ownership restricts economic mobility for Hindus. They may be passed over for jobs or face pressure to
sell their land at lower prices.
Christians: Christians experience discrimination in employment, education, and social interactions.
Accusations of blasphemy can lead to mob attacks on churches and communities. In 2021, a Christian
couple was burned alive after being falsely accused of blasphemy. Churches and Christian communities
have been targeted in mob violence, leading to destruction of property and loss of life. The 2013
bombing of a church in Peshawar, which killed over 80 people. Christians may face discrimination in
access to quality education, limiting their career prospects weakening their economic conditions.
Ahmadis: The Ahmadi community faces the brunt of legal discrimination. Declared non-Muslims by the
state, they cannot call themselves Muslims. Ahmadis have been victims of targeted violence and even
assassinations of prominent figures who advocated for their rights. The Second Amendment to the
Pakistani Constitution declared Ahmadis non-Muslims. They are banned from calling their places of
worship mosques or using Islamic terminology. Ahmadis are victims of hate crimes and targeted violence
due to their beliefs. Several Ahmadi mosques have been bombed, and prominent Ahmadi figures have
been assassinated. Ahmadis are often ostracized and denied opportunities due to their religious identity.
They may face difficulty finding jobs, housing, or social acceptance.
Hazara: This ethnic minority, concentrated in Baluchistan province, Hazara face targeted killings and
violence due to their ethnicity and religious beliefs. Sunni extremist groups view them as heretics and
eliminate them through bombings, shootings, and kidnappings. In 2013, a bomb attack on a snooker hall
in Quetta killed over 80 Hazara Shia Muslims. Extremist groups like Lashkar-e-Jhangvi have claimed
responsibility for numerous attacks targeting Hazara communities.
Dalits: Dalits, who are the lowest caste in the Hindu social hierarchy, experience discrimination within
the Hindu and Muslim communities in Pakistan. Dalits face social exclusion, forced labor, and
discrimination in access to education, employment, and housing. They are often trapped in menial jobs
like sanitation work due to societal prejudice. Caste-based violence against Dalits, including honor
killings.
Transgender Individuals: While not technically a minority group, transgender people in Pakistan face
extreme social stigma, violence, and discrimination. They are often denied education, employment, and
housing opportunities. Many transgender people resort to sex work due to lack of options. In 2018, a
prominent transgender rights activist was shot and killed.
Laws Positive
Articles like 20, 25, and 27 guarantee equality before the law, freedom of religion, and the right to
practice and propagate it.
Article 36 requires the state to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of minorities, including
representation in government jobs
Minority Marriage Laws:
Separate marriage laws exist for Hindus, Christians, and others, allowing them to follow their religious
practices in marriage matters.
National Commission for Minority Rights Act, 2017:
This act establishes a commission to investigate complaints of discrimination and recommend ways to
improve the situation of minorities.
Pakistan Penal Code (PPC):
The PPC has provisions against murder, assault, and other criminal acts, which can be applied to violence
against any group.
The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2018:
This relatively new law grants legal recognition to transgender individuals and prohibits discrimination in
areas like education, employment, and healthcare. However, implementation remains weak.
Laws Negative
The Blasphemy Laws:
These controversial laws, while meant to protect religion, are often misused to target minorities. False
accusations can lead to violence and social isolation.
Second Amendment to the Constitution (1974):
This amendment declares Ahmadis non-Muslims, restricting their religious freedoms and social standing.
Attempts to make changes
Prohibition of Forced Religious Conversion Bill, 2019:
This act was drafted in response to concerns about forced conversions, particularly of religious
minorities. The act aimed to criminalize forced conversions using allurement, force, or fraudulent means.
It outlined penalties for offenders and established reporting procedures for conversion ceremonies. The
act was introduced in the National Assembly but was not passed.
The Sindh Criminal Law Amendment Act, 2016:
This Act was passed by the Sindh Provincial Assembly in 2016. It aimed to amend the Sindh Criminal Law,
potentially addressing various issues, with a key focus on protecting minorities. The Act faced strong
opposition from conservative religious groups who argued it infringed on religious freedom. This act was
passed but was NOT implemented.
Changes Being Made
Judicial Activism:
The Pakistani judiciary has sometimes played a role in protecting minority rights through its rulings. This
can put pressure on the government to address issues.
Advocacy Efforts:
Human rights groups continue to push for legislative reforms to protect minorities. Public awareness
campaigns can help build support for change.
Sources:
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