By Waleed Qasim Bashir
Pakistan is a country with a diverse religious population, with a majority of Muslims, but also significant numbers of Hindus, Christians, and other minorities. Despite this diversity, religious discrimination has been a persistent problem in the country, with members of minority communities facing discrimination and persecution on the basis of their faith.
One of the main forms of religious discrimination in Pakistan is the discriminatory treatment of religious minorities in the criminal justice system. This includes discrimination in the investigation and prosecution of crimes, as well as in the treatment of prisoners and defendants. In many cases, members of minority communities are arrested, detained, and convicted on the basis of false accusations and without due process.
Another form of religious discrimination in Pakistan is the discrimination faced by minority communities in the workplace and in access to education and other services. This includes discrimination in hiring and promotion, as well as in the provision of education and health care. In many cases, members of minority communities are denied equal opportunities and are forced to accept lower-paying, lower-status jobs.
Religious discrimination in Pakistan is also manifested in the form of forced conversions and forced marriages. This includes the forced conversion of Hindu and Christian girls to Islam, as well as the forced marriage of minority women to Muslim men. These practices are often carried out with the support and collusion of local authorities, and the victims are often left with no legal recourse or protection.
The problem of religious discrimination in Pakistan is further exacerbated by a lack of government action and regulation. Despite laws and policies in place to protect religious minorities, these are often not enforced, and discrimination and persecution continue with impunity.
The situation is also further complicated by the rise of extremist groups, which promote a narrow and intolerant interpretation of Islam and target religious minorities for violence and persecution. This has created a climate of fear and insecurity for minority communities, and has made it difficult for them to speak out against discrimination and persecution.
The problem of religious discrimination in Pakistan is a serious one that requires urgent action from the government, civil society, and the international community. This includes measures to ensure equal protection and rights for all citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs, as well as efforts to combat extremism and promote tolerance and mutual understanding. Additionally, it is important to work with communities and religious leaders to promote a culture of respect and acceptance for diversity.
Religious discrimination is a violation of human rights, and it is the responsibility of government, civil society, and the international community to take action to protect minority communities and ensure that they are able to live in safety and with dignity.
