Karachi : The purpose of this letter is to shed light on the history of sectarian violence towards the Shia
community in Pakistan and highlight the country’s hypocrisy in treatment of their own citizens.
I hope to raise awareness about this issue through your esteemed platform.
For decades, the Shia community has faced relentless discrimination and violence in Pakistan to
which, the authorities turn a blind eye. They receive endless death threats and are subjected to
targeted attacks during the month of Muharram- a month that should hold religious
significance for all Muslims alike.
Shia individuals, especially those belonging from Hazara community, have been frequently
subjected to bombings, shootings, and many other acts of violence. The horrific target killings
of Shias in Parachinar led to the loss of many innocent lives through the hands of an extremist
group, Taliban.
Similarly, such groups also use false accusations of blasphemy as an excuse to target Shias,
resulting in mob violence and unjust executions. Ironically, the people of Pakistan, who actively
raise their voice for the Palestinian people in Gaza, remain silent for the people of their own
country.
We, as people, cannot hope to bring a difference in the world if we cannot even help the
people in our own country. The hypocrisy must stop and the government should take necessary
actions to prevent such inhumane acts of violence and racism. It is time for Pakistan to uphold
its commitment to human rights and ensure the safety and security of all its citizens, regardless
of their religious beliefs.
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