HRCP slams discriminatory ban on Ismaili butchers in Chitral, warns of threat to pluralism

Commission notes that the region has long been admired for its tradition of inter-communal harmony

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The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has voiced serious concern over what it describes as sectarian discrimination in Chitral, following a decision by the local administration in Garam Chashma to prohibit Ismaili butchers from supplying meat in the area.

In a strongly worded statement issued on Thursday, the HRCP condemned the move as a violation of the constitutional principle of equal economic opportunity for all citizens, regardless of sectarian affiliation.

The commission noted that the region has long been admired for its tradition of inter-communal harmony and warned that such one-sided measures risk inflaming sectarian tensions and inciting violence.

"Undermining fundamental rights due to religious pressure sets a dangerous precedent," the HRCP said.

"This threatens not only the livelihoods of a marginalised community but also the very fabric of pluralism in Pakistan."

The rights watchdog called on the district administration to fulfill its constitutional duty to treat all citizens equally and to ensure that administrative decisions are based on law and fairness, not appeasement.

Any failure to act impartially, the HRCP warned, could deepen existing divisions and further erode public confidence in the rule of law.

The statement comes amid growing concern from civil society over increasing intolerance and discriminatory practices targeting religious and sectarian minorities in various parts of the country.