The ordeal of minorities in 2010

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan’s latest report on the State of Human Rights in Pakistan reminds us once again about the grim realities of the state of human rights in the country. The report has, understandably so, highlighted the ordeal of minorities in the land of pure and has shared some horrific figures including killing of 99 members of the Ahmadi community in the fateful year. 64 people were charged with blasphemy, out of which three were killed in police custody. The fact that the Ahmadi community is facing unparalleled discrimination is not something new and we kept hearing about such violent acts throughout the year.

During the last four months of 2010, three members of the family of Sheikh Mehmood Ahmad (head of the Ahmadi family) have been killed in three organized attacks including Mehmood himself while three have sustained lifelong injuries. This family has a strong business background in Mardan District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Unfortunately, it has been a victim of kidnappings, bombings and targeted murders since last two years. The situation is quite critical for women and children as they are more exposed and helpless. The family and their business should be provided protection and the children and women of the family should be visited by the female parliamentarians of the ruling coalition to give moral support and an access to education of the children in a safe environment should be ensured.

“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 or caste or creed—that has nothing to do with the business of the State. We are starting with this fundamental principle that we are all citizens and equal citizens of one State”, stated the founder of Pakistan. Is this the true picture of Pakistan that the Quaid had promised to the citizens of Pakistan at the time of independence?

In situations of religious conflict, the authorities have a particular responsibility to safeguard the fundamental rights of the minority, including the right to liberty and the safety of the person. The concerned citizens of Pakistan share HRCP’s concerns about failure of the authorities to take effective steps to protect these rights and in cases of attacks by the majority, to provide for adequate redress.

The government seems to be indifferent to the situation and there is no reaction to the ever increasing violations of human rights and particularly those of the vulnerable segments of the society such as minorities, women and children. The government should immediately institute an impartial enquiry into the attacks and killings of minorities. The findings of the inquiry should be made public and the persons responsible for the attacks and killings should be brought to justice.

Furthermore, the government should also adopt international human rights standards such as the United Nations Declaration on the Elimination of All Forms of Intolerance and of Discrimination Based on Religion and Belief. These steps will create awareness among the law enforcement agencies concerning their role and responsibility regarding the protection of the life and property of religious minorities.