Religious minorities demand equal rights in Karachi march

Among key demands of protesters was plea to government to put a halt to practice of forced conversions

KARACHI:

Scores of individuals from diverse religious minorities came together at the historic Frere Hall in Karachi to hold a 'Minority Rights March' on Friday, advocating for their rights and demanding an end to the practice of forced conversions.

The march took place on the occasion of Minority Day, drawing enthusiastic participants from various corners of the city carrying banners, placards, and photographs to voice their demands.

A significant banner displayed prominently at the event read, "End abductions, harassment, forced marriages and rape of women and girls of religious minorities." The attendees passionately echoed this sentiment, calling for urgent action to address the pressing issues faced by religious minorities in the country.

Among the key demands of the protesters was the plea to the government to put a halt to the practice of forced conversions, a concern that has long troubled minority communities. The marchers emphasised the need for legislation that criminalises such conversions.

They also urged the repeal of any discriminatory provisions in the Constitution, aiming to ensure equal opportunities for minority citizens in holding offices of national leadership.

The list of demands extended to issues surrounding property rights, with calls to return properties belonging to religious minorities that had been unjustly enforced, sold, or leased to others.

The march was attended by a diverse range of participants, including Hindus, Christians, Sikhs, and other religious minorities, all of whom united to voice their collective concerns and needs. Slogans echoed through the gathering, advocating equal rights, protection for worship places, and an end to forced conversions.

Speaking about the significance of the march, Sandeep Maheshwari shared, "This is the first time and we want this to continue so the state could feel our presence." He underlined the importance of representation and unity, highlighting that even Muslim friends had joined them in solidarity.

Zahid Farooq, a minority rights activist, commented on the potential benefits of providing equal rights to religious minorities, stating that Pakistan's progress could be enhanced through inclusivity and equal treatment for all citizens.

He stressed that these rights need to be acknowledged and respected by all in accordance with the law, and anticipated that these issues will garner support from political parties in the upcoming general elections.

The transgender community leader, Shehzadi Rai stood in solidarity with the minority march, recognising the shared issues and struggles faced by marginalised communities. "These people should have equal rights and should be treated as citizens," she asserted.

The event was graced by the presence of notable figures such as Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, Zulfikar Bhutto [Junior], and various political and civil society activists.

Prominent speakers including Sheema Kirmani and Pastor Ghazal Shafiq addressed the attendees, amplifying the call for the government to address the legitimate demands and concerns of religious minority groups across the country.

Minority and marginalised communities hold 'Minority Rights March' at the historic Frere Hall in Karachi on Friday, August 11, 2023. PHOTO: EXPRESS