• Until the cycle of abduction, forced conversion, and forced marriage is broken, minority communities will continue to live in fear, their rights repeatedly trampled upon in silence.

By Nasir Aijaz

The recent abduction and forced conversion of three daughters and a son of a Hindu family in Shahdadpur, a city of southern Sindh province of Pakistan, has once again brought the alarming issue of religious forced conversions into the spotlight.

According to the allegations made by the mother, a member of the Hindu community, the minors – Diya Bai, Jia Bai, Disha Bai and their brother Honey Kumar, were abducted and converted under duress, with their minor son publicly claiming he was converted at gunpoint. Despite legislative efforts, such incidents highlight the ongoing failure of authorities to protect minority communities against heinous crimes, raising urgent calls for accountability and stricter enforcement.

Although, the police have arrested the accused, a teacher, who used to take tuition classes, the abducted children were not handed back to their parents, and instead sent to a government Shelter Home, as reported on the social media. The girls and their brother were recovered by the police from Karachi, the provincial capital. And according to latest reports, they were produced in a local court on Friday, but strangely the court allowed the minor boy Honey Kumar and Disha Bai to go with their parents while two elder girls Dia Bai and Jia Bai were refused to be handed over to the parents and were sent to Shelter home. Nobody knows their fate. The parents and the members of Hindu community staged protest demonstration but their protest remained unheeded. The girls were crying to go with their parents but the police took them away.

Meanwhile, another video of a young boy with beard went viral on social media on Friday evening, wherein the boy claimed that he is the husband of Diya Bai, who embraced Islam three years back. According to him, the girl was kept at a shelter home of Jamaat-e-Islami in Karachi. “She embraced Islam reciting the Holy Kalima in front of my sister,” he said.

Sindh, a province historically known for its religious diversity and pluralism, has seen a troubling rise in reports of forced conversions of minority women and children. Human rights organizations and minority advocacy groups repeatedly raise concerns that religious minorities, including Hindus, Christians, and others, are increasingly vulnerable to abductions, forced conversions, and marriages against their will.

The issue is multifaceted, rooted in socio-economic marginalization, social pressures, and sometimes entangled with political and criminal syndicates. The perpetrators often operate under the guise of religious or social norms, exploiting legal loopholes and societal indifference.

Many of these incidents follow eerily similar patterns. In some cases, families have reported their daughters disappearing without trace, only to find them later converted and married, sometimes after police or local officials dismiss claims of coercion. Such cases often evoke protests, legal battles, and media coverage, but despite the efforts, justice remains elusive for many victims. One prominent example was in 2019 when Rinkle Kumari, a young Hindu girl, was abducted and reportedly converted. Her case garnered national and international attention, sparking protests and demands for action, but critics argued that the existing legal framework was inadequate to protect minors from abduction and forced conversion in a timely manner.

Read: Forced Conversion in Sindh: Would there be an end to woes of Hindu Community?

Many cases involve minors as young as 12 or 13, highlighting how vulnerable this segment of society is to exploitation. Reports from Tharparkar, Kandhkot, and other districts have consistently painted a grim picture of women and children being abducted, their right to choose forcibly denied, often under societal pressures or threats. Despite the repeated exposure of these incidents, many argue that the authorities’ response remains weak. Laws such as the Sindh Criminal Law (Protection of Minorities) Bill, which criminalizes abduction and forced conversion, have been enacted, but their enforcement is often criticized as being ineffective. Some officials are accused of turning a blind eye or even colluding with perpetrators, further marginalizing already vulnerable communities.

Many families have openly accused local authorities and police officials of either turning a blind eye or actively participating in such crimes, citing a lack of accountability. A 2022 report by the Human Rights Watch indicated that courts have sometimes validated marriages forcibly entered into by minors, citing notions of “consent” that are often coerced or manipulated. This disconnect between law and practice perpetuates a cycle of impunity which leaves vulnerable minorities in helpless situations.

Statistics provided by the All Pakistan Minority Alliance reveal that approximately 80% of reported abduction and forced conversion cases go unresolved or are dismissed due to lack of evidence or miscarriage of justice. The NGOs also highlight that actual figures could be much higher, as many families fear retaliation and choose not to report incidents. For example, in the year 2021 alone, over 100 cases of Hindu girls being abducted and forcibly converted were officially reported in Sindh, but local sources estimate that the real number could be double or triple that. Such statistics underscore the severity of the crisis and reflect a systemic failure to stem the tide of violence against religious minorities.

The emotional toll is devastating. Victims often find themselves entirely powerless in courts that are slow to act or sympathetic to the accused. The abduction, coercion, and conversion of minors are often cloaked in societal acceptance or silence, making it difficult to combat this phenomenon effectively. High-profile cases have brought international attention, but concrete change remains elusive.

This ongoing crisis underscores the urgent need for coordinated action. The government must do more than pass laws; it must ensure these laws are vigorously enforced, with independent oversight and swift judicial proceedings. Community awareness programs are equally crucial for empowering families to recognize early warning signs and report crimes without fear. Religious leaders and civil society must collaborate to promote tolerance and protect minority rights. Only a collective, persistent effort can break the cycle of abduction and forced conversion that has beleaguered Sindh for far too long.

The failure to effectively implement laws and provide safeguarding mechanisms underscores a complex nexus of legal loopholes, societal acceptance, and political will. Minority communities continue to demand stronger protections, independent investigations, and stricter punishments for perpetrators, but the cycle persists. The recent incident in Shahdadpur highlights how the problem remains urgent and unresolved. The viral video of the young boy claiming he was converted at gunpoint has moved many to question whether laws are enough or if systemic societal changes are necessary to tackle these deep-rooted issues.

The challenge lies not just in criminal justice but also in addressing the underlying social prejudices and vulnerabilities. Many minority families live in fear of abduction and conversion, sometimes feeling abandoned by the very state institutions meant to protect them. There is a growing call from activists, human rights organizations, and community leaders for more proactive measures, including watchdog organizations monitoring law enforcement’s role, awareness campaigns to educate families about their rights, and stricter legal action against those involved in such crimes.

Despite the national and international condemnation, the problem of forced conversions in Sindh remains a stark reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by religious minorities. It exposes the gaps between legislation and enforcement, highlighting the need for a collective effort that transcends mere laws to create a societal shift against such violations. Until the cycle of abduction, forced conversion, and forced marriage is broken, minority communities will continue to live in fear, their rights repeatedly trampled upon in silence.

Read: Constitution of Commission suggested to deal with Forced Conversion issue in Pakistan

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The writer is a senior journalist based in Karachi. He can be accessed at nasir.akhund1954@gmail.com

Courtesy: The AsiaN, Seoul, South Korea (English and Korea)

The post Sindh Govt. Fails to Protect Minorities first appeared on Sindh Courier.

Sukkur, Sindh

Elected representatives of the Meghwar Panchayats from Sukkur, Ghotki, and Khairpur—Mukhi Dadan Arshi, Mukhi Daryano Mal, District Councilor Ameet Kumar, and Mukhi Heera Nand—have expressed their disagreement with the notification of District Committees established to address the issues of the Hindu community of Sindh.

The formation of district committees to address the issues of the Hindu community in Sukkur, Khairpur, and Ghotki has been fundamentally flawed due to the undue influence of Mukhi Eshwar Lal, an upper-caste Hindu leader. Instead of ensuring fair representation for all Hindu sub-communities, the authorities have allowed him to monopolize the process, sidelining Scheduled Caste Hindus, including Meghwar, Bheel, Bagri, Harijan, Valmiki, and others. This exclusion is a grave injustice, as these communities constitute the majority of Sindh’s Hindu population, yet their voices have been deliberately ignored.

Despite the directives from the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police to form inclusive committees at the district level, Eshwar Lal has manipulated the process to benefit his own caste, depriving lower-caste Hindus of their rightful participation in decision-making. The systematic disregard for elected Meghwar Panchayats and the exclusion of key community representatives have further deepened this discrimination. While minority rights committees exist within SSP offices, their effectiveness is undermined by the fact that they serve the interests of a privileged few rather than addressing the real concerns of the broader Hindu community.

Read: As Pakistan votes, ‘untouchables’ fight for representation

The state’s ongoing favoritism toward upper-caste Hindus, despite the overwhelming majority of Scheduled Castes, reflects a deep-rooted bias that perpetuates inequality. As a result, issues such as illegal land grabs, forced conversions, and legal challenges surrounding marriage and inheritance remain unresolved for lower-caste Hindus. Token representation and social media activism cannot substitute meaningful engagement. It is imperative that the government revisits its approach, ensures the rightful inclusion of Scheduled Caste Hindus in these district committees, and rectifies this long-standing injustice. Only through equitable representation can the Hindu community as a whole address its challenges and secure its rightful place in society.

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The post Systematic Injustice against Scheduled Caste Communities first appeared on Sindh Courier.

The leadership must realize that it is impossible to create an effective state if its own citizens are oppressed.

By Nazarul Islam

A disabled and limping state like Pakistan can exist and move forward only when the opinions of broad segments of the population, including national and religious minorities, are seriously taken into account. Whatever resources the state may claim to possess, stable development can only be achieved by building a broad base of support and consensus among its citizens.

A stable political system requires a deep and effective system of checks and balances, where the interests and desires of many segments of the population are taken into account.

Continued instances of oppression and discrediting of minorities has led to the growth of discontent and radicalization of the masses. This has emerged into a serious problem for its political system.

Read: Religious Minorities in Pakistan: Identities, Citizenship and Social Belonging

Only by taking into account the interests and hopes of the broad layers of the population and the masses, is it possible to build a stable state. Otherwise, as world history has shown, states are doomed to failure.

Unfortunately Pakistan, a Muslim country of 240 million people and a de facto nuclear power, most often has found mention in news reports in connection with one topic: the increased activity of Islamist radicals and international terrorists.

The roots of the idea of creating Pakistan as an independent state go back to the last decades of the 19th century, when Muslim separatism began to manifest itself in British colonial India. These sentiments received an organizational form in December 1906 with the creation of the All-India Muslim League.

Read: Religious Minorities in Pakistan: A Vicious Cycle of Violence and Suppression

However, the global media has frequently thrown light on the internal situation in Pakistan. Quite often the real picture is distorted, and negative trends in politics or social sphere are not fully reflected in the world media.

The fact is that the Pakistani state is unable to cope with the economic and social problems of the region and cannot solve urgent issues of everyday life of the general population

A veteran politician and Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif admitted during a session of the National Assembly that minorities are being persecuted because of religion. Expressing concern over the daily killings of minorities, the military chief said, “Every day, minorities are being killed. They are not safe under the guise of Islam. I want to address the issue of minority safety, but the opposition is blocking my efforts. Pakistan is facing global embarrassment.”

Asif further emphasized that no religious minority, including smaller sects within Islam, is safe in Pakistan despite constitutional protection.

Living in Pakistan is scary, even on a day to day basis. Muslim sects that are smaller in population and size are not safe in Pakistan, which is a disgraceful situation. A lot more needs to be done than a legislative resolution to protect minorities.

While the nation’s constitution guarantees minority rights, there are incidents of violence occurring across various locations. Those who have been killed so far did not have any evidence linking them to blasphemy; rather, these killings seem to stem from personal vendettas.

According to reports, HRCP and Human Rights Watch, Hindus, Sikhs and other minorities in Pakistan continue to face challenges such as forced conversions, kidnappings, killings and attacks on their places of worship.

Read: Sindh police kills Dr. Shahnawaz Kumbhar under false blasphemy charges

The situation remains volatile, with incidents occurring in different regions. Moreover, the Ahmadiyya community faces severe persecution, including legal restrictions on their religious practice, hate speech and violent attacks.

They continue to be attacked because of their religious beliefs, with incidents being reported across the country. Furthermore, Christians face discrimination in employment, education and accusations of blasphemy, leading to widespread violence and attacks on churches.

Pakistan’s legal framework has continued to discriminate against religious minorities, contributing to their marginalization and vulnerability.

Repression in Pakistan also targeted the Shiites, the second-largest group in Islam. Despite their small numbers, the Shiites represent an economically and politically influential group.

Shiite national leaders have included the founding father of Pakistan, M. A. Jinnah, the country’s first Prime Minister, Liaquat Ali Khan, the first President, Iskander Mirza, a major but not particularly successful reformer, Z.A. Bhutto and other prominent figures.

These are not the only problems haunting the ordinary Pakistanis. A number of national minorities practicing Sunni Islam are also subjected to repression. Particularly in recent years, the situation has worsened in the west of the country, in the province of Baluchistan.

The fact is that the Pakistani state is unable to cope with the economic and social problems of the region and cannot solve urgent issues of everyday life of the general population. This has led to the growth of opposition activities and discontent against Islamabad.

The discontent of the general population and minorities is met with a harsh and sometimes outright brutal response

At the same time, in recent years, the Pakistan Army has been conducting anti-terrorist operations on the Afghan-Pakistani border on a permanent basis. This has caused serious discontent on the part of civilians. International observers have noted the indiscriminate and brutal nature of the operations carried out by the Pakistani military.

Today’s prominent Baloch activist Mahrang Baloch claims that the Pakistani state and especially the ISI military are involved in the disappearance of the families of the protesters. She has publicly stated that the families of the missing people who participated in the march were being forcibly disappeared by the state and called it a “brutal act of attacking the families of the victims to sabotage their struggle.”

In a communication to X Mahrang Baloch said, “The families of the missing Baloch people who participated in the march are being forcibly disappeared by the state, which is a brutal act of attack on the families of the victims to sabotage their struggle.”

Expressing her disappointment, Baloch has stated: “The state continues to pursue brutal and repressive policies against Balochistan.”

Read: Repression and Revolt in Balochistan: The Uncertainty and Survival of a People’s National Aspirations

Despite some economic successes, Pakistan still faces deep divisions between different ethnic and religious groups. Unfortunately, as practice shows, addressing these challenges is not a priority for the Government of Pakistan.

On the contrary, the discontent of the general population and minorities is met with a harsh and sometimes outright brutal response from the military and its spy agency.

Western governments expect not to see these violations, mostly limiting themselves to criticism from various human rights organizations.

Tragically, the problem of stability and sustainable development should be of primary concern to Pakistani statesmen. The leadership must realize that it is impossible to create an effective state if its own citizens are oppressed.

Read: Celebrating our failures….

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The Bengal-born writer Nazarul Islam is a senior educationist based in USA. He writes for Sindh Courier and the newspapers of Bangladesh, India and America. He is author of a recently published book ‘Chasing Hope’ – a compilation of his articles.

Read: ‘Default’ is a curse word for Pakistanis

The post Woes of Pakistan’s paralysis first appeared on Sindh Courier.

[National Minorities Day is observed annually on 11 August in Pakistan. The origin of this observance dates back to 2009 when the Government of Pakistan established it with the aim of recognizing the contributions and dedications made by religious minority groups towards the nation’s progress.]

By Sarang Mathrani

In 1947, when the subcontinent was partitioned by the British rulers and Pakistan came into being, it inherited a diverse social structure. The new country faced the challenge of integrating various religious and ethnic groups, including Hindus, Christians, Sikhs, and other minorities. The founder of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, had a clear vision: “You are free; you are free to go to your temples, you are free to go to your mosques or to any other place of worship in this State of Pakistan. You may belong to any religion, caste or creed—that has nothing to do with the business of the State.”

Since its founding, Pakistan has been a home to a mix of cultures, religions, and ethnicities. The country’s journey toward embracing diversity, inclusivity, and sustainability has had both challenges and successes. As Pakistan moves forward, the role of minority communities has become more important, and the government’s actions and policies are crucial in building a more unified and forward-thinking society.

To protect minority rights, Pakistan’s Constitution has laid down a framework. The Constitution of 1956 and its successors, especially the Constitution of 1973, guaranteed the rights of minorities, ensuring their freedom to practice their religion and take part in national life.

Read: Despite Being Protected By The Constitution, Why Are Minorities Mistreated In Pakistan?

The 1973 Constitution also reserved seats for minorities in both the national and provincial assemblies, a key step in ensuring political representation. In 1981, the government introduced the Separate Electorate System to give minorities a distinct voice in elections, though it was later replaced by the Joint Electorate System in 2002, returning to a unified electoral process.

The government has also focused on educational reforms, such as the National Education Policy of 2009, to improve access to quality education for all, including minorities. In recent years, minority quotas in educational institutions have helped increase participation among minority youth.

The Protection of Minorities Act, enacted in 2020, and the creation of the National Commission for Minorities, show the state’s commitment to protecting minority rights.

As of 2024, Pakistan’s population is approximately 241 million, with minorities making up about 4.5%, or roughly 10.85 million people. Christians account for 1.6%, Hindus for 1.85%, and other groups, including Sikhs, Parsis, Buddhists, and Baháʼís, make up around 0.83% of the total population.

The National Assembly of Pakistan has 10 reserved seats for minorities, filled through proportional representation based on the votes political parties receive in general elections. In the Senate, there are reserved seats for minorities from each province, ensuring representation at the national level.

In terms of political engagement, minorities in Pakistan have reserved seats as follows: 4 in the Senate, 10 in the National Assembly, and in the provincial assemblies, there are 8 in Punjab, 9 in Sindh, 3 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and 3 in Balochistan.

Moreover, there has been a noticeable increase in government efforts to protect the rights of minorities. In 2014, the Supreme Court of Pakistan, led by former Chief Justice Tassaduq Hussain Jillani, made an important ruling. The court ordered the government to create a national council for minority rights and set up special police forces to protect places of worship. This ruling has become a key reference for those advocating for minority rights in Pakistan.

There is still a dire need for inclusive pathways, particularly regarding the policies of the Minority Commission, Ministry of Minority Affairs, Minority Committee, and the Hindu Marriage Act. Even after the 18th Amendment granted provinces the authority for self-governance and legislation, parliamentarians, stakeholders, and policymakers are not taking this responsibility seriously.

Cultural and educational changes are also helping to create a more inclusive society. There are ongoing efforts to revise school curriculums to include minority perspectives, though this has faced some resistance. Additionally, cultural events that celebrate minority traditions are becoming more popular, helping to build a sense of shared identity among Pakistanis.

Interfaith dialogues, which were once rare, are now more common and often supported by both civil society organizations and government institutions. These dialogues have helped to reduce the distance between different religious communities, promoting mutual respect and understanding.

There is still a dire need for inclusive pathways, particularly regarding the policies of the Minority Commission, Ministry of Minority Affairs, Minority Committee, and the Hindu Marriage Act. Even after the 18th Amendment granted provinces the authority for self-governance and legislation, parliamentarians, stakeholders, and policymakers are not taking this responsibility seriously.

Today, in major cities across Sindh and in the capital, rights activists are marking this day with great zeal. They have a clear charter of demands, emphasizing the need for a concrete action plan for Pakistan’s religious minorities. Their rights and representation must be fully recognized and exercised.

Read: Political Promises vs. Reality: Insecurity for Minorities in Pakistan

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The writer is Rights Activist based in Umerkot, Sindh, Pakistan. He can be reached at smmmathrani@gmail.com

The post National Minority Day: Way Forward for Inclusive Pakistan first appeared on Sindh Courier.

Staff Report

Karachi, Sindh

caretaker Sindh Chief Minister Justice ® Maqbool Baqar speaking at a conference on Minority Rights said that no citizen should feel like a minority in their own country merely because they ascribe to a religion that is different from the one ascribed by a country’s majority.

The conference was organized by the Department for Minorities Affairs in collaboration with the Pakistan Arts Council at its auditorium on Tuesday.

“I believe that weaponizing laws meant to protect religion and patronizing radicalism has sown the seeds of bigotry and parochialism.”

Also read: Minority Communities are not treated well in Pakistan

CM that he has always believed that confronting uncomfortable truths and introspection is the key to a better future. He added that conferences like these also have another crucial function: they reiterate our commitment to upholding the rights of non-Muslim citizens, particularly their right to freely profess, practice, and propagate their faith.

Today, fundamental rights and civil liberties are in jeopardy throughout the world as right-wing regimes attempt to further marginalize vulnerable communities, the CM said and added that the Indian Supreme Court validated the regime’s decision to build a temple on the site of the Babri mosque. “At the same time, despite pressure from radical elements, courts throughout Pakistan have done well to uphold religious liberties, often at the peril of violence from such radical groups,” he said.

Justice Baqar said that in 2014, the Supreme Court took Suo motu cognizance of a horrific attack on a church in Peshawar. While laying down clear directions for the protection of religious sites, the Supreme Court held that “We are all members of one race of humans with common challenges, and we cannot confront these challenges without forging a common alliance. This paradigm shift in the world around us can be achieved at the international and domestic levels only by discouraging sectarian, racial and ethnic biases which are violative of shared values and fundamental rights, and by the promotion of and strict compliance with these values and rights.”

Also read: Political Promises vs. Reality: Insecurity for Minorities in Pakistan

The CM said that in more recent years, we have seen two more progressive judgments from the Supreme Court. Quoting Tahir Naqash’s case, he said that the Supreme Court acknowledged the rights of Ahmedis to practice and propagate their faith. Similarly, in Salamat Mansha’s case, the Supreme Court granted bail to a person accused of offences against religion.

Justice Maqbool Baqar said that the Supreme Court in Salamat Mansha’s case also highlighted how such allegations were often levelled to settle personal scores and the tendency of violent mops to pronounce judgments before the courts of law have declared a person guilty. “The significance of these judgments however exceeds their jurisprudential value,” he said and added that to the contrary, their significance was underscored by the Court refusing to be swayed by the prevailing winds of extremism. Furthermore, judgments like these are also significant in assuring citizens that their rights do not rest on tenuous footings.

CM said that we have often failed to protect non-Muslim citizens. “I consciously choose not to use the word minority because I believe no citizen should feel like a minority in their own country merely because they ascribe to a religion that is different from the one ascribed by a country’s majority,” and added that weaponizing laws meant to protect religion and patronizing radicalism has sown the seeds of bigotry and parochialism.

Also read: Pakistan’s Forgotten Dalit Minority

Justice Baqar said that unfortunately, extremism and bigotry have seeped across large segments of our population. He said that just as the State’s active role in patronizing radical groups has contributed to extremism, concerted efforts towards eliminating such groups and forging alliances with progressives would allow us to reverse the tide of violent extremism.

The interim CM said that as a signatory to international conventions such as the ICCPR, we must take concrete steps towards broadening the frontiers of religious freedom. “The journey ahead may seem arduous, but all monumental journeys begin with a single step,” he said and added that we must work for a pluralistic, democratic, and progressive Pakistan – a Pakistan where none of us is a minority, a Pakistan where our religious beliefs do not inhibit the opportunities we get.

“I believe without pluralism and diversity, peace and prosperity shall elude us,” the CM concluded.

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Written by Rimsha Shahid, Purkho Essir Bheel

Caste or varna is certainly not the creation of God; the privileged class created it for their own selfish gains. Caste is not specific to India, and no country, regardless of whether it is fundamental to its reality, should be limited to a single social group. However, comprehending caste in Pakistan requires an understanding of the demography of caste, the intricacies of which are undeniably complex. While it may not be one of Pakistan’s most visible social aspects, it underlies many of the country’s historical and contemporary challenges.

The Hindu population in Pakistan is a small minority, making up around 1.2 per cent of the total population. A significant proportion of Hindus in Pakistan belong to the Scheduled Castes. Approximately 40 distinct castes exist in Pakistan, with 32 of them formally designated as Scheduled Castes under the November 1957 Presidential ordinance. Scheduled Castes are mainly associated with Hindu communities, reflecting the influence of the supremacy of upper-caste Hindus. The challenges of discrimination against Dalits are primarily prevalent in rural areas, where a significant portion of the population lacks literacy and awareness about human rights. These discriminatory practices are primarily carried out by local feudal lords and sections of the upper-class Hindu population residing in rural areas.

The legacy of caste-based exclusion in Pakistan has deep historical roots that existed in the sub-continent centuries before the country came into being. While the Constitution and legal frameworks were established to protect the rights of religious minorities and marginalized communities, discrimination persists.

Approximately 40 distinct castes exist in Pakistan, with 32 of them formally designated as Scheduled Castes under the November 1957 Presidential ordinance

The story of Basanti Meghwar’s family is heart-wrenching. For more than two decades, they have been victims of bonded labor, trapped in brick-making to pay off the debt incurred when they borrowed money from a kiln owner to cover a hospital bill. Due to the absence of clear documentation, they are vulnerable to exploitation through such practices of modern-day slavery. However, civil society has been trying to help and influence government decision-making. Pannu Fair, a bonded laborer since the age of eight, was freed and his debt cleared through a court order. The intervention of SPARC, a local NGO, helped him to find a way to freedom.

Dalits are disproportionately affected by bonded labor, primarily due to factors such as poverty, their caste status, and being non-Muslim, which further contribute to the challenging socio-economic conditions faced by the very segment.

While the intensity of discriminatory activities against Dalits in Pakistan may not be as extreme as in some other countries, these practices still exert negative impacts on their lives, contributing to their social marginalization and exclusion. The discrimination they face lead to their curtailed participation in political processes, including discouragement from contesting elections or freely exercising their voting rights. Forced conversion in Pakistan is yet another distressing issue that highlights the vulnerability and challenges faced by marginalized communities.

Despite ongoing challenges and systemic exclusions from mainstream society, some determined individuals of the Dalit community have managed to rise high and make an impact on society. Sono Khangharani, with over three decades of experience in microfinance and development, has made a significant impact on society by leading and developing organizations that work with diverse groups. His commitment towards transformative change has created opportunities for marginalized individuals in the community.

Additionally, Krishna Kohli’s journey from being a bonded laborer to becoming the first Hindu Dalit woman to be elected to the Senate, from Nagarparkar in Sindh province, is a remarkable story of resilience. Growing up in a deprived village, she faced poverty, hunger, and was subjected to forced child labor. However, her determination enabled her to break free from this cycle and be an inspiration for others. These success stories highlight that individuals from Dalit communities have resilience and potential for growth and if given equal chances, they can rise to higher positions, contributing to a more inclusive and equitable society.

Some other influential figures have called attention to issues faced by Pakistan’s Dalit population. A local Dalit, Radha Bheel, CEO of RADHA (Rural Advancement Development Human Rights Association) and Chairperson of Dalit Sujag Tehreek, has emphasized the lack of political participation and economic disparities faced by Dalits in Pakistan. Another human rights activist, Pushpa Kumari, has pointed to the intersecting factors of gender, caste, and social position. Pirbhu Satyani, a human rights advocate from Sindh, has often spoken of the limited public discourse on caste discrimination in Punjab.

To tackle these concerns, the Government of Pakistan, particularly the Sindh government, has undertaken a range of laws and programs to address the difficulties experienced by minority communities. Despite the presence of legislation aimed at protecting minority groups, efforts are needed to effectively implement these laws. Dalits in Pakistan aspire to bring a transformative change where systems and authorities that support and promote such exclusionary practices for personal gains can be challenged. Only then can a future that guarantees greater security and safeguards their rights be attained.

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Shahid is Senior Research Analyst, South Asia Research Institute for Minorities (SARIM) and Bheel is Research Associate, SARIM

Courtesy: Indian Express (Posted on October 29, 2023)

The post Caste in Pakistan: A lived reality first appeared on Sindh Courier.

Karachi

Pakistan Press Foundation (PPF), in collaboration with Thomson Media, has invited applications for a fellowship program on inclusive reporting to enhance minority representation in the run-up to the next general elections in Pakistan.

The project aims to support local reporters, including women citizen reporters and bloggers, to produce factual and conflict-sensitive multimedia reports addressing the needs of minorities, especially women, and speaking truth to power in the aftermath of the upcoming parliamentary elections in Pakistan.

The fellowship program intends to make a contribution to reinforce independent, ethical, and accountable media in Pakistan through the capacity building of media professionals.

The fellowships will include the following:

The fellowship amount for support in producing articles will be up to seventy-two thousand rupees.

Participation in two in-person workshops on capacity-building and safety.

Participation in one online lecture on election know-how.

Participation in bi-monthly virtual newsrooms on election reporting.

Production of four conflict-sensitive election stories.

Editorial and technical support.

Travel expenses to attend in-person training and a contribution towards connectivity packages to facilitate the production will be covered by the organizers.

Selected participants will work under the supervision of a senior journalist who will act as fellowship editor during the fellowship term.  During the fellowship program (August 2023- October 2024), each fellow will be expected to produce four stories for publication or broadcast in media organizations in the pre and post-election cycle.

Journalists with experience of at least three years and an interest in investigative reporting particularly election coverage are encouraged to apply. Journalists from all provinces and regional areas of Pakistan and women journalists from minority groups and marginalized communities are encouraged to apply.

Applicants must send the following:

Fellowship application form

Copy of the press card or employment letter

Applications should be sent to ppfelectionreporting@pakistanpressfoundation.org

The deadline for submitting applications is August 20, 2023.  Applications received after the due date will not be entertained.

PPF Application Form (English): https://www.pakistanpressfoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Final-Application-Form-English.docx

For Google Form: https://forms.gle/EWU7qVqVFTji726r5

PPF Application Form (Urdu):

https://www.pakistanpressfoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Final-Application-Form-Urdu.docx

For Google Form: https://forms.gle/HmgWPTGSj9cJb6fV6

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The post Applications invited for Election Reporting Fellowship first appeared on Sindh Courier.

National Minority Day is being observed today – August 11, for paying tribute to the contribution of minorities to the progress and prosperity of Pakistan. The day is observed every year at the national level to recall the real vision of Father of Nation Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah who emphasized being one nation.

Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah was the first who recognized the rights of non-Muslims as equal to any other Muslim citizen in Pakistan.

Quaid e Azam, in his landmark speech on August 11, 1947, gave a vision for Pakistan, and had declared: “You are free to go to your temples. You are free to go to your mosques or any other place of worship in this State of Pakistan. You may belong to any religion, caste or creed that has nothing to do with the business of the State.” He always wanted a state without any discrimination against any race, ethnicity, caste, or creed.

It is state’s responsibility to provide and secure the fundamental rights to minority communities

The Quaid’s words tell us the real meaning of Pakistan but unfortunately, various issues and incidents have happened against the minority communities where in most of the cases they have felt exclusion from various aspects in the social, political, and economic dimensions.

The minority communities are not treated the way Father of Nation desired. It is state’s responsibility to provide and secure the fundamental rights to minority communities but our leaders’ silence on various issues like forced marriages, forced conversion and missing persons of minority communities hurts a lot.

We are thankful to ex-president Asif Ali Zardari who officially announced to celebrate minority day in 2009 and gave many opportunities but the basic thing required is the safety and peaceful life. There are many heroes from minority communities who have sacrificed their life in the line of nation and serving the nation in different departments and professions.

Our last breath is dedicated to our beautiful Pakistan. We are Proud to be Pakistani. Long Live Pakistan.

Anthony Sahotra

Larkana Sindh

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Hyderabad, Sindh

Sindh Minister for Minorities Affairs Gianchand Esrani inaugurated the expansion and renovation work of the hall of Dargah (Shrine) Jahanian Shah in Hyderabad on Sunday.

Talking to media persons, Gianchand Esrani said that the Department of Minority Affairs was also working on the construction, repair and renovation of the places of worship of the minority community.

He said that expansion and renovation of the hall of Dargah Jahanian Shah would make it easier for pilgrims to perform their religious rituals.

He said that the Department of Minority Affairs had done record development works this year and this process was still going on with a good pace.

“Hundreds of development schemes of improvement of temples, churches, crematory and places of worship of the minority community are going on across the province,” he claimed.

He said that concerned wing of the department had been directed to complete as many development schemes as possible by the end of the current financial year and negligence would not be tolerated in this regard.

Syed Qutub Ali Shah Jahanian, Syed Attar Hussain Shah Jahanian, Murshid Jahanian Shiva Mandali, Mukesh Kumar, Suresh Kumar, Suraj Kumar, Chetan Mal, Pehlaj Roy, Dewan Lekhraj, Dr. Tek Chand, Hira Lal, concerned officers and a large number of people were present on the occasion. (PR)

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From Our Correspondent

Khairpur Sindh

A one-day Awareness Seminar on Minorities Rights, organized by the Marvi Rural Development Organization (MRDO), Sukkur and Peace & Harmony Society of University was held at Shah Abdul Latif University, Khairpur on Friday.

Prof. Dr. Khalil Ahmed Ibupoto, Vice Chancellor, Shah Abdul Latif University, Khairpur presided over the seminar while Giyan Chand, Former Senator was the chief guest. Javed Ahmed Jiskani, Deputy Inspector General (D.I.G) of Police, Sukkur Division and Ms. Pushpa Kumari, Member Sindh National Lobbying Delegation of Minorities Organization were the guests of honor.

Talking to the participants of the seminar, Prof. Dr. Khalil Ahmed Ibupoto said that in Pakistan minorities have equal and ample opportunities however we must strive to protect the rights of minorities.

He said Sindh is the cradle of Sufism having respect for human dignity, peaceful co-existence. “We have to care our minorities as per provision of the constitution of Pakistan. The message of our Holy Prophet (S.A.W.W) is also for the promotion of human values and dignity.”

Giyan Chand said that the minorities have enormous facilities in Pakistan. “We have representation in Parliament and in the federal and provincial cabinets.”

He stressed the need to contain the forced conversion and marriages.

He commended the promulgation of the Hindu Marriage Act-2018 which is glaring example of the Government’s protection to minorities.

He appreciated that the Government is committed to provide protection to the minorities in the country.

Giyan Chand stressed the need to work for uplifting the marginalized communities.

DIG Javed Ahmed Jiskani said that in western society, there is diversity in ethnic and religion because that society is liberal. He said in Islam, there is no compulsion on conversion of religion and added that Meesaq-e-Madina is glaring example of peaceful co-existence when Holy Prophet (S.A.W.W) migrated to Madina, and signed this memorandum.

He said that in our country, the rights of minorities are guaranteed by the constitution under chapter of fundamental rights. He stressed the need to change the mindset and strive for rule of law. He said the laws which are drafted shall be implemented in letter and spirit. Jiskani remarked that the plight of the minorities is deplorable in neighboring country.

Ms. Pushpa Kumari said that it is the need of the time that political parties may incorporate in their political manifesto the rights of minorities. She appreciated the policies of the present Government of Sindh and termed it secular policies. She said that the legislation regarding Hindu Marriage Act may be trickle down to Union Council level.

Mukesh Kumar from Hindu Panchayat said that the education facilities for minorities may be extended so they could get education freely.

Ranjhan Das, Assistant Director Minorities Affairs Sindh said that this seminar aimed at to create awareness regarding the rights of the minorities. He said we are providing funds for needy minority persons without any discrimination.

Ms. Saira Solangi, General Manager MRDO shed light on the working of the MRDO. She said we are striving to empower the women. We are also committed to protect the rights of the minorities.

Salman Ali, Grants Manager MRDO said that we are working the different Union Councils of the Khairpur to provide the basic facilities to the marginalized communities and capacity building of the Union Councils.

Prof. Dr. Taj Muhammad Lashari, Dean Faculty of Social Sciences accorded welcome address to the guests and participants. He said it is our collaborative and collective responsibilities to care about the rights of the minorities. Dr. Lashari said this seminar will pave a way for the sensitization in the youth regarding the rights of minorities.

Ali Raza Lashari conducted the proceedings of the seminar. Shields and traditional Ajraks were distributed among the guests. A large number of teachers, officers, employees, media persons, civil society activities and students attended the seminar.

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