Minority Rights March held amid tight security

Equal rights as stipulated by the Constitution must be upheld, and the state should ensure the protection of all places of worship and the life and property of people living in smaller communities.

The 'Minority Rights March' held at historic Frere Hall on Sunday took place amid tight security. All roads leading to the venue were closed off by security agencies, with containers blocking access.

"It creates fear among the participants when security is heightened," an organiser wearing a mask told The Express Tribune. "We did not expect this kind of environment to be created," he added, noting that the number of participants was reduced due to security threats.

"This day should be celebrated with freedom and dignity," said Saeed Baloch, a social and political activist. "I can see more security personnel than participants," he commented.

Minority groups and their representatives from various areas of the city participated, highlighting the issues they have been facing. "Pakistan's Constitution ensures all rights to minorities," said Justice Naimatullah Phulpoto. He stated that minorities in Pakistan have all social and economic rights. "It is the responsibility of the government to ensure these rights as per the Constitution," he added.

Another speaker, Sardar Ram Singh, demanded that the provincial government recover the nine-year-old missing girl, Priya Kumari. "Bilawal and President Asif Ali Zardari should take personal interest in this case," he urged.

Renowned activist Sheema Kirmani also voiced concerns about the lack of due rights for minorities. "We will have to explain to our children that the white part of Pakistan's flag represents minorities," she said.

Activists demonstrated the issues through performances, illustrating their living conditions. They also held placards and chanted slogans in their favour. One placard read, "We demand an inclusive and plural Pakistan, where every citizen is treated equally." Another placard showed a message urging, "Ensure security for our daughters."

Another organizer mentioned that the administration was initially unwilling to permit the march. "We demanded that the Sindh government at least allow us to gather at Frere Hall," he said, adding that threats continued during the march, causing most of the organizers to leave the venue using different routes.

Meanwhile, Sardar Abdul Rahim, General Secretary of Pakistan Muslim League-Functional Sindh and Secretary Information of GDA, has said that all minority communities bring pride and honour to Pakistan.

In his statement on Minority Day, he recalled Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah's commitment to the equality and rights of minorities, reaffirming that they are integral to the nation's fabric.