Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced on Tuesday that his government is moving to establish an independent commission to protect the rights of religious minorities. The announcement came as Pakistan observed National Minorities Day, a time to highlight concerns over forced conversions and violence against religious communities. The commission, set up under legislation passed last year, will address grievances and monitor constitutional and legal protections for minority groups. It will also oversee issues related to places of worship and employment quotas.
The initiative follows ongoing reports of discrimination and targeted violence against religious minorities in the country. While the government has not provided specific details on the commission’s structure or timeline, the move is seen as a response to growing public and international pressure. Sharif’s government has previously faced criticism over the treatment of religious minorities, including allegations of state complicity in some cases. The new commission aims to provide a formal mechanism for addressing these concerns.
The announcement was made during a cabinet meeting where Sharif was praised for his role in international diplomatic efforts, including a recent summit in Makkah. However, the focus on minority rights remains a key domestic challenge for his administration. The commission’s success will depend on its implementation and the willingness of authorities to enforce its findings.
