The NCRC launched its report Situation Analysis of Children from Minority Religions in Pakistan in the Islamabad Capital Territory, drawing attention to the everyday challenges faced by minority children across the country. Representatives from government organisations, UN agencies, embassies, the British Council and civil society organisations attended the event to review findings and discuss policy responses.
Ayesha Raza Farooq, Chairperson NCRC, said the report examines the lived realities, vulnerabilities and systemic barriers confronting children from Christian, Hindu, Sikh, Kalasha and Baha’i communities. She underlined that although the constitution guarantees freedom of religion, equality before the law and protection for minorities, minority children continue to encounter discrimination in education, employment and access to justice.
Dr. Shoaib Suddle, Chairman One Man Commission, highlighted existing legal safeguards for minority groups and urged swift operationalization of relevant laws and policies. He stressed the importance of constitutional Article 22, which prohibits compelling children to study religious content other than their own, and voiced concern over its frequent misinterpretation by some educational institutions.
Senator Samina Mumtaz Zehri, Chairperson of the Senate’s Functional Committee on Human Rights and guest of honour, welcomed the NCRC’s work. She observed that the report’s findings point to deep-rooted challenges to human rights and to the inclusive principles envisioned by the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) and Quaid-e-Azam. Senator Zehri reaffirmed Parliament’s commitment to strengthening protections for minority groups and pledged enhanced oversight, policy measures and continued dialogue informed by the report.
Pirbhu Lal Satyani, Member Sindh / Minorities NCRC, delivered a detailed presentation of the data-driven findings and recommendations. His presentation outlined practical steps to bolster protection mechanisms and ensure equity for children from minority faith communities across Pakistan, with a focus on safe access to education, fair employment prospects for families and effective remedies within the justice system.
The launch emphasised collaborative responsibility across government, UN partners and civil society to translate the report’s recommendations into action. Ensuring the rights and dignity of minority children remains a critical priority for policymakers seeking to uphold constitutional guarantees and build a more inclusive Pakistan.
