During a session of Pakistan’s national assembly, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif expressed grave concern over the increasing violence against minorities in the country. “Every day, minorities are being killed. They are not safe under the guise of Islam,” Asif stated, highlighting the daily persecution faced by minority communities.
Asif emphasized that no religious minority, including smaller Muslim sects, is safe in Pakistan despite constitutional protections. He called for a resolution to safeguard these communities, pointing out that many victims had no connection to blasphemy allegations but were targeted due to personal vendettas. “Even smaller Muslim sects are not safe in Pakistan, which is a disgraceful situation,” he remarked.
Reports from the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) and Human Rights Watch reveal that Hindus, Sikhs, and other minorities face severe challenges, including forced conversions, kidnappings, killings, and attacks on their places of worship. The Ahmadiyya community faces intense persecution, with legal restrictions on their religious practices, hate speech, and violent attacks. Similarly, Christians endure discrimination in employment, education, and are frequently accused of blasphemy, leading to mob violence and attacks on churches.
The legal framework in Pakistan, including blasphemy laws, often discriminates against religious minorities, leading to arbitrary arrests, violence, and societal ostracization. Asif’s acknowledgment highlights the urgent need for legislative and societal reforms to protect the rights and lives of Pakistan’s minority communities.
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