Written by: Huria Ashiq – binteashiq0301@gmail.com
Pakistan is a diverse nation, home to numerous ethnic and religious communities. Punjabis, Sindhis, Baloch, Pashtuns, Saraikis, Hazaras, Kashmiris, and many other ethnicities having different religious backgrounds coexist with each other. However, the national narrative has long sidelined minorities, marginalizing the voices of ethnic and religious groups. This neglect has led to social exclusion and inequality, resulting in internal divisions within Pakistan’s population and among its various communities. As the country faces political instability, economic crises, and global climate challenges, these divisions among ethnic and religious minorities are further intensifying tensions across Pakistan.
Since Partition, Pakistan has unfortunately struggled to address ethnic tensions among its diverse communities. The most significant impact of these unresolved issues was witnessed in 1971, when East Pakistan became Bangladesh, an outcome of deep-rooted ethnic fault lines. This division was largely a result of the absence of a consistent democratic system in the country. Pakistan has rarely experienced stable democracy, which has hindered its ability to ensure equal rights and fair representation for all ethnic and religious minorities.
After independence, Pakistan witnessed that key political positions were largely dominated by major ethnic groups, particularly Punjabis. Other ethnic communities such as Sindhis, Baloch, Kashmiris and Pashtuns were often denied equal opportunities to participate in politics or were limited to representation through quotas. This imbalance deepened ethnic divides and fueled movements driven by a sense of political exclusion. The denial of fair political rights and representation became a central cause of ethnic and religious unrest in the country.
Beyond the political aspect, economic factors have also played a significant role. Economic deprivation and marginalization have severely affected ethnic and religious groups like the Baloch, reinforcing inequalities and resentment. However, the political dimension remains more dominant because if ethnic minorities are granted the right to genuine political participation, they would have the power to influence policies and address economic disparities themselves.
Coming to the issue of religious minorities, the concept of their rights in Pakistan emerged immediately after independence. On the very day Pakistan was declared a sovereign state, its founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, made a significant statement emphasizing equality. In his historic speech on August 11, 1947, Jinnah stated that all citizens of Pakistan, regardless of their religion, caste, or creed, were free to go to their temples, mosques, or any other places of worship.
After independence, Pakistan passed a significant document known as the Objectives Resolution, which was considered the foundation stone for the country’s future constitution, especially regarding the rights of minorities. This resolution outlined the commitment to fundamental rights for all citizens of Pakistan, regardless of their religion, whether they were Muslims, Christians, Hindus, or others.
According to the Objectives Resolution, every citizen had the freedom to practice their religion, and it was the responsibility of the state to protect the rights of all individuals. Moreover, it allowed all citizens, including religious minorities, to participate in government services without discrimination. Thus, under this resolution, both Muslims and minorities were assured fundamental rights as equal citizens of Pakistan. Afterwards, all three constitutions of Pakistan included provisions guaranteeing fundamental rights for all citizens, including religious and ethnic minorities. However, at present, the situation appears completely contrary, not only in the treatment of citizens in general but especially in the case of minority communities. Despite officially recognizing the presence of religious and ethnic minorities, Pakistan has largely failed to acknowledge and address their specific needs. This disconnect between constitutional promises and ground realities has contributed to the ongoing marginalization and exclusion of minority groups in the country.
Over the years, religious minorities in Pakistan have faced increasing discrimination and violence. According to one study, many Christians feel they are not treated as equal citizens and believe that Pakistan is perceived as a country made solely for Muslims. This idea has been reinforced through the education system, shaping young minds with a biased perspective, which contributes to the intolerance and discrimination faced by minorities. Some educated Christians have expressed that they feel Pakistan’s general perception of them is unfair. There is a common misconception that Christians are more loyal to the West than to Pakistan. However, the truth is that Pakistani Christians are just as loyal and committed to their country as any other citizen.
At the present moment, we are witnessing ongoing violence against both ethnic and religious minorities in Pakistan. The Balochistan insurgency, now in its fifth phase, is a clear reflection of these issues. Its root causes lie in the same problems, political and economic marginalization. Many youths in Balochistan, feeling excluded and deprived, are being influenced by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), which is funded by India to create unrest in the country and demand so called separate state. The BLA encourages them to rise against the state, take up arms, and fight against the state. In response, the state has reacted with force, leading to cycles of violence and repression during different phases of the conflict. During these cycles of violence, Hundreds of Punjabis, Balochs and other minorities have lost their lives.
The attacks on churches in recent years, the assassination of Salman Taseer over the Aasia Bibi case, the brutal murder of a Sri Lankan manager in Sialkot, the lynching of Mashal Khan, and many similar incidents reflect the other darkest side of our society. We have begun weaponizing blasphemy laws not just against religious minorities, but also against members of the majority. The consequences are now painfully evident: growing hatred between Muslim and Christians, Baloch and Punjabis, Sindhis and Punjabis, Pashtuns being labeled as terrorists or linked to Afghan-backed groups, Muslims and Hindus divided within the country, Ahmadis being targeted and killed, Christians treated as inferior, and rising sectarian violence between Shias and Sunnis. This is what we have come to after 78 years: division, intolerance, and extremism.
Here lies the answer to the first question: “Why does Pakistan need to engage its ethnic and religious minorities?”
- Sense of Inclusivity
Pakistan urgently needs its minorities, now more than ever. When ethnic and religious minorities are granted their fundamental rights, they will begin to feel equally Pakistani, respected, valued, and empowered. For instance, the Baloch youth must be brought into the mainstream system to reduce feelings of alienation and resentment. In this regard, the efforts of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) deserve appreciation for offering internship opportunities to an increasing number of Baloch students. Such initiatives help reshape not only the Baloch youth’s perception of the state but also challenge the wider national narrative on issues like missing persons and the economic marginalization of Balochistan
- Economic Sustainability
Pakistan’s economic empowerment is closely tied to the inclusion of minority youth in the country’s economic framework. When young people from ethnic and religious minority communities are given equal access to education and employment opportunities, they are more likely to invest their skills and potential within Pakistan. This engagement will foster economic productivity, innovation, and long-term reforms. By empowering all segments of society, Pakistan can truly harness the strength of its diverse youth population for national development.
- Political Stability
Political stability can only be achieved by fully integrating the youth from both ethnic and religious minorities into the national political process. The tragic lesson of the fall of Dhaka must not be forgotten. Repeating those mistakes would be a disservice to the country’s future. It is crucial to engage and include youth from all regions—from Kashmir to Karachi—within the mainstream political and civic systems. Doing so will help build trust, reduce alienation, and counter the growing trend of youth seeking opportunities abroad due to disillusionment and lack of representation.
- End of extremism and Lack of tolerance
The end of extremism in Pakistan is only possible when every citizen is granted their rightful place and equal rights in society. The rise in violence stems from deep-rooted frustration—built over years of waiting for justice, recognition, and dignity. People long for an identity they can be proud of, yet many still feel excluded and unseen. This ongoing identity crisis must be addressed by fostering a culture of tolerance and mutual respect among all ethnic and religious groups. Only then can we move toward a peaceful, unified, and progressive Pakistan.
- Change Global Perspective
Following the Cold War and the War on Terror, Pakistan’s global image has suffered significantly. Currently, ongoing unrest in Balochistan and violence against religious minorities are frequently highlighted by Western media, further tarnishing the country’s reputation. To counter this, Pakistan must recognize the hidden potential within its minority communities and empower them to represent the nation positively on the international stage. We are already witnessing the rise of talented individuals from Balochistan—boxers, athletes, authors, and more. Their achievements can be a source of national pride and serve as powerful ambassadors for a more inclusive, tolerant, and diverse Pakistan in the global arena
Now, how can Pakistan ensure inclusivity and protect the rights of its ethnic and religious minorities? In my opinion, the following recommendations are essential:
- Enforce constitutional laws across the country by holding institutions and law enforcement agencies responsible and accountable. To achieve this, all corrupt officials must be removed from these institutions and forces.
- The school curriculum needs to be revised. It currently contains biased language against religious minorities, especially Hindus. Some chapters portray Hindus negatively, particularly in the context of partition, which promotes intolerance.
- The creation of a Minority Protection Force can be an innovative solution. The government should establish a dedicated helpline for all ethnic and religious minorities and launch awareness campaigns so that if they face any threat, they can immediately seek help and protection.
- Media campaigns and the role of family are crucial in shaping mindsets. Real education begins at home, so parents must teach their children about the rights and respect of minorities. Additionally, media campaigns—especially through dramas—can be powerful tools. A recent example is the drama “Tan Man Neel O Neel” on Hum TV, which effectively highlighted the dangers of mob lynching and how quickly mob mentality can escalate.
In short, Pakistan urgently needs to unite its ethnic and religious minorities. They are not a weakness but a vital strength, we just need to recognize their potential and provide them the right opportunities. There are many examples of minority individuals who have made Pakistan proud, and we hope that in the future, more people from minority communities will be empowered to express their opinions freely and pursue their aspirations. Because Minorities are our pride.
