The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has released a fact-finding report titled Exodus: Is the Hindu Community Leaving Sindh?, shedding light on the growing migration of Hindus from the province due to a combination of faith-based violence, economic struggles, and climate change.
HRCP Chairperson Asad Iqbal Butt emphasized that violence and discrimination against Hindus in Sindh often go underreported, leaving many families with no option but to seek refuge abroad, including in India, despite the social challenges this entails.
Economic Struggles and Criminal Extortion
Rajvir Singh Sodha, Special Assistant to the Sindh Chief Minister for Human Rights, stated that upper-caste Hindu families are facing extortion by criminal gangs, exacerbating their decision to migrate. The deteriorating law and order situation in Sindh has worsened these challenges.
The Vulnerability of Hindu Women
Pushpa Kumari, an HRCP Council member, highlighted the increased vulnerability of Hindu women in Sindh, who often fall victim to abduction, forced conversion, and underage marriage. These issues have further contributed to the community’s migration.
Calls for Immediate Action
Journalist Sohail Sangi urged both Sindh and federal governments to act swiftly to improve the safety and dignity of the Hindu community. He called for increased law enforcement, greater Hindu representation in the police force, and ongoing dialogue between the government and local Hindu communities.
Recommendations for Action
The HRCP study recommends collecting reliable data on Hindu migration patterns to better understand the scale of the issue. It also advocates for specialized law enforcement units in high-risk areas and stronger enforcement of laws against forced conversions and underage marriages.
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