Pakistan witnesses protests over kidnapping of Hindu girl

In response to the recent abduction of a young girl named Priya Kumari, members of the Hindu community and traders in Dera Murad Jamali expressed their outrage by staging a protest, as reported by Dawn. They demanded immediate action for her safe return and criticized the perceived incompetence of the Sindh government in handling the situation.

Protesters lamented the failure to locate and rescue Kumari, who was abducted from Sukkur just days ago. They highlighted the alarming trend of innocent children being abducted in Sindh, particularly emphasizing the deteriorating security conditions for religious minorities.

Led by prominent figures from the Hindu community, such as Mukhi Manak Lal and Seth Tara Chand, the rally attracted participants from various segments of society. Notable attendees included Taj Baloch representing traders, Liaqat Ali Chakar from JI’s youth wing, Mir Jan Mengal, president of the wholesale market, Molana Nawabuddin Domki, Khan Jan Bangulazi, and Harpal Das.

The leaders called upon Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah to take immediate and decisive action to ensure the safe return of the abducted girl and to deliver justice to the minority community. They warned of nationwide protests if their demands were ignored.

Human Rights Focus Pakistan (HRFP) also condemned the persecution of religious minorities in Pakistan and urged the government to enact legislation ensuring equal rights for all communities. The organization highlighted the victimization of Christians, Hindus, Ahmadiyyas, Sikhs, and others in various attacks over the past few months.

Established in 1994, Human Rights Focus Pakistan (HRFP) is a non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights, particularly focusing on religious minorities, women, and children. It emphasized the importance of legislation aligning with the vision and principles of Pakistan’s founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

HRFP noted that recent incidents have added to the suffering of minorities, making them more vulnerable. Naveed Walter, the President of HRFP, expressed concern over the alarming incidents reported in the short duration of the year so far.