Jaishankar: Pakistan's minority treatment monitored, raised internationally

New Delhi

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated that India closely monitors the treatment of minorities in Pakistan and raises the issue internationally. Speaking during Question Hour in the Lok Sabha, he highlighted multiple incidents of crimes against minorities in Pakistan, particularly in February. These included seven cases of abduction and forced conversion, two of abduction, and one involving police action against students celebrating Holi.

Jaishankar detailed additional incidents affecting the Sikh, Ahmadiyya, and Christian communities. Three cases targeted Sikhs, including an attack on a Sikh family, threats over a gurdwara’s reopening, and the abduction and forced conversion of a Sikh girl. Two cases involved the Ahmadiyya community—one where a mosque was sealed and another where 40 graves were desecrated. A Christian man, reportedly mentally unstable, was also charged with blasphemy.

Jaishankar emphasized India’s efforts in addressing these issues on global platforms. He cited statements by India’s representatives at the UN Human Rights Council and the UN General Assembly, where Pakistan was called out for its persecution of minorities, human rights abuses, and support for terrorism.

Additionally, Human Rights Focus Pakistan (HRFP) reported a sharp rise in religious minority persecution in 2025. HRFP President Naveed Walter condemned the growing cases of forced conversions, abductions, and blasphemy charges, including the recent assault on Christian youth Wasif Masih in Faisalabad. He criticized the lack of justice and the impunity enjoyed by perpetrators backed by religious and political figures.