Human Rights Commission of Pakistan warns of rising exclusion amid minority rights bill delay

Lahore [Pakistan], October 2 : The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has voiced deep concern over the government's delay in enacting the National Commission for Minorities Bill, stressing that the prolonged hold-up undermines the rights of religious minorities across the country.

HRCP Chairperson Asad Iqbal Butt reminded authorities that the bill was approved by Parliament on May 12, 2025, and has been awaiting presidential assent ever since. Nearly five months later, the Commission noted, there has been no clear explanation for the delay, raising fears of backpedalling on a measure crucial to minority rights.

In an open letter shared on the social media platform X, addressed to President Asif Ali Zardari and Law Minister Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar. HRCP highlighted that the absence of an independent and legally mandated commission continues to leave marginalised communities exposed to discrimination, violence and social exclusion.

HRCP highlighted that the bill had been developed with broad input from civil society and minority groups, aiming to create a commission not tied to any one religion but inclusive of all communities.

Its proposed structure provides for representation from minority groups, national human rights institutions and independent experts, ensuring that the body can work with legitimacy and inclusivity. HRCP warned that such representation must go beyond token appointments and include all religious minorities, particularly those historically targeted by extremist violence.

Calling for transparency, HRCP urged the government to disclose any observations made by the presidency and ensure that provisions already supported by civil society are not watered down. "The establishment of this commission is vital for strengthening constitutional guarantees, restoring public trust in state institutions and fulfilling Pakistan's global human rights obligations."

Rights activists argue that any further delay risks intensifying the climate of exclusion and fear faced by minority groups, undercutting Pakistan's credibility on rights protection both at home and abroad.

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