Members of the Hindu community and traders in Dera Murad Jamali, Balochistan, expressed their discontent by taking to the streets to protest against the recent abduction of a young girl named Priya Kumari. They demanded immediate action from the Sindh government in Pakistan to ensure her safe return.
The protesters condemned the government for its lack of effective measures in locating and rescuing Priya, who was abducted from Sukkur a few days ago.
During the demonstration, the participants held up placards condemning the frequent abduction of children in Sindh and highlighting the deteriorating security situation for religious minorities. The rally was led by prominent figures from the Hindu community, including Mukhi Manak Lal and Seth Tara Chand, and witnessed participation from various sectors. Notable attendees such as Taj Baloch from the traders’ community, Liaqat Ali Chakar representing JI’s youth wing, Mir Jan Mengal from the wholesale market, Molana Nawabuddin Domki, Khan Jan Bangulazi, and Harpal Das were also present.
These leaders called upon Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah to promptly take action to ensure Priya’s safe return and to seek justice for the minority community. They warned of nationwide protests if their demands were ignored.
According to Dawn, Human Rights Focus Pakistan (HRFP) also condemned the persecution of minorities in Pakistan and urged the upcoming government to pass legislation that guarantees equal rights for all communities. HRFP emphasized the need to protect Christians, Hindus, Ahmadiyyas, Sikhs, and others who have been targeted in attacks over the past few months.
“The newly elected representatives and the government must enact legislation to ensure equal status for all citizens, in line with the vision and thoughts of Pakistan’s founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah,” stated HRFP. “The recent cases of persecution add to the suffering, and the increasing numbers have made minorities even more vulnerable,” the organization added.
Human Rights Focus Pakistan is dedicated to promoting and safeguarding human rights, with a particular focus on protecting the rights of religious minorities, women, and children.