#New York #Human Rights #Pakistan #Hindus Advancing Human Rights #Pakistan Genocide

Growing Alarm Over Minority Persecution in Pakistan

A recent formal complaint submitted to the United Nations (UN) has ignited discussions on the plight of minority communities in Pakistan. The complaint, initiated by Hindus Advancing Human Rights (HAHRI), a body associated with HinduPACT, comes in the wake of horrific incidents like the Pahalgam massacre, where 25 Hindus were brutally killed. Citing these incidents, the complaint characterizes the situation as a 'drip, drip genocide' against not only Hindus but also Christians and Sikhs residing in Pakistan.

As detailed in the complaint, Pakistan is currently under scrutiny following allegations of grave human rights abuses. This action garners the support of sixty signatories from various religious and ethnic backgrounds, including Hindus, Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Jews, and ex-Muslims from countries such as India, the US, the UK, the Netherlands, New Zealand, and Kenya. The signatories consist of academics, human rights advocates, and high-profile individuals that include former officials from the UN and other international bodies.

The Allegations

The core of the complaint holds that Pakistan has not only failed in adhering to its commitments but has also actively engaged in systemic violence and discrimination against minority communities. Highlighting the stark decline in the population of these groups—down from 23% in 1947 to a mere 3% today—the complaint paints a grim picture of the genocidal practices rampant within the country.

Several documented instances underline this claim, including targeted kidnappings, forced conversions, and sexual exploitation of Hindu and Christian women and girls. Furthermore, educational curricula are reported to be infested with anti-Hindu and anti-Christian narratives, perpetuating a cycle of hatred that leaves minorities vulnerable to violence and discrimination.

Calls to Action

In response to these ongoing violations, the complaint makes several urgent demands to the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC):
1. Establishment of an International Tribunal: The UNHRC is urged to forward the complaint to the UN Security Council for the formation of a tribunal capable of prosecuting individuals responsible for the alleged genocide.
2. Implementation of Human Rights Measures: The complaint calls for immediate steps to halt ongoing violations, including the cessation of harmful practices related to forced conversions.
3. Textbook Review and Reformation: A review and subsequent confiscation of textbooks promoting hatred against minorities are also sought to promote a more inclusive educational environment.
4. Monetary Compensation: It demands that Pakistan’s government provide financial reparations for the victims affected by these genocidal actions.

The Bigger Picture

This situation serves as a grave reminder of the challenges faced by religious minorities in regions where extremist ideologies tolerate intolerance. Rahul Sur, Executive Director of HAHRI, and Deepti Mahajan, Co-Convenor of HinduPACT, have played pivotal roles in coordinating this urgent appeal to the UN.

Prominent organizations such as the Hindu American Foundation (HAF) and Coalition of Hindus in North America (CoHNA) back this complaint, illustrating a united front across various communities against the rising tide of persecution.

As the world watches, this complaint could lead to significant developments. Many hope that international awareness and pressure will finally bring a halt to the ongoing human rights crisis in Pakistan, ensuring safety and dignity for all its citizens, regardless of their faith.

For further updates and detailed information regarding this topic, visit HAHRI's official website.