AI Generated Summary
- Observers point to a pattern in which minorities — including Hindus, Christians, Sikhs, Ahmadis and others — face social exclusion, targeted attacks, and legal constraints that limit their freedom to practice religion openly and safely.
- The victimisation of communities belonging to various faiths has long been documented by rights groups and acknowledged in international discussions, raising serious questions about the country’s commitment to protecting minority rights.
- Incidents of forced conversions, attacks on places of worship, and misuse of blasphemy laws have been repeatedly reported, contributing to an atmosphere of fear and insecurity among non-Muslim communities.
Pakistan’s treatment of religious minorities has once again come under the spotlight, with its record widely described as marked by persistent discrimination, violence, and institutional neglect. The victimisation of communities belonging to various faiths has long been documented by rights groups and acknowledged in international discussions, raising serious questions about the country’s commitment to protecting minority rights.
Observers point to a pattern in which minorities — including Hindus, Christians, Sikhs, Ahmadis and others — face social exclusion, targeted attacks, and legal constraints that limit their freedom to practice religion openly and safely. Incidents of forced conversions, attacks on places of worship, and misuse of blasphemy laws have been repeatedly reported, contributing to an atmosphere of fear and insecurity among non-Muslim communities.
India on Monday reiterated that this systemic persecution is a well-established fact, arguing that Pakistan’s track record on minority protection speaks for itself. They stressed that international attention has frequently been drawn to the issue, with concerns raised about both state policies and societal attitudes that enable discrimination.
Despite these longstanding challenges, Pakistan continues to raise concerns about minority-related incidents in other countries. In recent remarks from Islamabad, Pakistani officials referred to alleged vandalism during Christmas celebrations in parts of India and claimed campaigns targeting Muslims. Critics, however, say such statements do little to address Pakistan’s own internal problems and instead divert attention from unresolved human rights issues at home.
Rights advocates argue that meaningful improvement in Pakistan’s minority protections would require legal reforms, stricter enforcement against hate crimes, and a broader societal shift toward tolerance and inclusion. Until then, they say, Pakistan’s abysmal record on safeguarding its minorities is likely to remain a recurring subject of international concern and criticism.
