LAHORE: The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has raised concerns over the escalating violence against religious minorities, particularly Ahmadis, Christians, and Hindus. The report, “Under Siege: Freedom of Religion or Belief in 2023-24,” highlights the weaponization of blasphemy laws, mob-led attacks, and state complicity in religious persecution.
Key Findings of the HRCP Report
1. Increase in Mob Violence & Social Media Incitement
- Social media disinformation was a key driver behind most blasphemy-related violence.
- The Jaranwala and Sargodha attacks were fueled by online hate campaigns.
- Over 750 individuals were imprisoned for blasphemy as of October 2023.
- At least four faith-based killings were recorded, three targeting Ahmadis.
2. Targeting of Ahmadis Through State Actions
- 42 attacks on Ahmadi places of worship were recorded, with law enforcement supervising nearly 60% of them.
- Four FIRs were filed against Ahmadis by police officers, showing institutional bias.
- Mass arrests of Ahmadis were conducted under the Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance, with 36 individuals detained for observing Eidul Azha.
- Ahmadi graves desecrated across Punjab and Sindh, sometimes with police involvement.
- Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) activists were seen accompanying police raids to confiscate sacrificial meat from Ahmadi households.
3. Forced Conversions of Hindu & Christian Women
- The report highlights widespread forced conversions, particularly among poor Hindu and Christian women.
- HRCP called for urgent legal measures to protect religious minorities from forced conversions.
State Complicity & Legal Inaction
- Extremist groups increasingly shape state policies against minorities.
- Despite investigations by Punjab’s Special Branch, no action has been taken against networks filing false blasphemy cases.
Proposed Legal & Constitutional Reforms
At an HRCP National Interfaith Working Group meeting, members proposed several reforms:
- A constitutional amendment allowing religious minorities to hold the offices of President & Prime Minister.
- Blasphemy laws need procedural changes to prevent misuse.
- Pro-minority legislation should be reviewed by the human rights ministry, not the religious affairs ministry.
- Legal aid mechanisms should be created for falsely accused blasphemy victims.
- Political representation for minorities should be expanded, including a minorities’ caucus in Parliament.
- Religious minorities’ marriage laws should be properly enforced.
Conclusion
The HRCP report highlights systematic religious persecution and the urgent need for legal reforms to protect Pakistan’s religious minorities. Without immediate intervention, the weaponization of blasphemy laws and mob-led violence will continue to threaten religious freedom and social harmony in the country.
