Islamabad, September 14, 2020 (PPI-OT): The Parliamentary Committee on Minorities in its meeting held on Monday, considered in great detail cases of forced conversions in Pakistan and dynamics that due to which these are caused. Chairman Committee, Senator Anwaar ul Haq Kakar was of the view that the rest of the Committee members unanimously stressed the need to visit areas in Sindh, where such cases were on the increase. It was asserted that this would be essential to vet circumstances on-ground and ensure timely and effective resolution of the matter.
The meeting was attended by Senator Dr. Sikander Mandhro, Senator Rana Maqbool Ahmed, Ms. Shunila Ruth, MNA, Mr. Jai Prakash, MNA, Mr. Lal Chand, MNA, Dr. Darshan, MNA, Mr. Keshoo Mal Kheeal Das, MNA, Mr. Ramesh Lal, MNA, Dr. Ramesh Kumar Vankwani, MNA and senior officers of the Ministry of Human Rights, Ministry of Minorities, Mr. Chela Ram, Kewlani, Chairman, National Commission for Minorities, D.G. (ICT) Office, Islamabad, DIG Police, Islamabad. Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs and Member of the Committee, Mr. Ali Muhammad Khan was present as well. The Committee was informed that there had been just one case of forced conversion in the precincts’ of Islamabad. Saima Iqbal Masih, was kidnapped from Iqbal Town.
The Committee showed grave concern regarding the rising number of cases in Sindh and asserted that the stringent action must be taken against perpetrators of such crimes. The Committee was of the view that formulation of legislation in this regard is essential for any policy-making on forced conversions. Analysis of circumstantial evidence and corroborating statements must be sought as well. IG Police, Sindh is likely to be summoned in the next meeting. The Committee directed the National Commission for Minorities to submit all related evidence so that cases may be cross-examined. In the meeting a holistic approach to review the matter was stressed.
For more information, contact:
Senate of Pakistan
Tel: +92-51-9204564534
Fax: +92-51-9205703
H.No.7, Cat-II, G-8/2,
Islamabad, Pakistan
E-mail: senate@comsats.net.pk
Website: www.senate.gov.pk