Khawaja Asif: Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif acknowledged on Monday that minorities in the country are facing targeted violence in the name of religion and that the state has failed to protect them. During a session of Pakistan’s National Assembly, Asif highlighted the dire situation, stating, “Minorities are being murdered daily… no religious minority is safe in Pakistan. Even the smaller sects of the Muslims are not safe,” as reported by Dawn news.
Admission of State’s Failure
Asif’s candid admission came as the coalition government led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif attempted to table a resolution condemning the recent spate of mob lynchings linked to blasphemy allegations. He described these attacks as a “matter of concern and embarrassment” and called for immediate measures to safeguard minorities.
Call for Protection and Constitutional Rights
The Defence Minister emphasized that many of the victims had no connection to the blasphemy allegations and were often targeted due to personal vendettas. “We must ensure the safety of our minority brothers and sisters. They have as much right to live in this country as the majority. Pakistan belongs to all Pakistanis, regardless of whether they are Muslim, Christian, Sikh, or of any other faith. Our Constitution guarantees full protection to minorities,” Asif asserted.
Opposition Protests Block Resolution
Despite the urgent need for action, the government was unable to table the resolution due to strong protests by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the party of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. The disruption highlighted the ongoing political challenges in addressing the safety and rights of minority communities in Pakistan.
As violence against minorities continues to draw national and international concern, Asif’s statements underline the critical need for concrete measures and political will to ensure the protection and equal rights of all citizens in Pakistan.
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