Describing 2010 as a “particularly bad one for religious freedoms” in Pakistan, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has warned that “worse times are in store”. In its report – ‘State of Human Rights in 2010’ - HRCP noted with concern that rhetoric about empowerment and protection of religious minorities in the country abounded but little was done in practical terms to achieve that.
Referring to the controversial blasphemy law, the report points out that the year had begun with the government indicating its intent to reform the provision to prevent its misuse. “However, by the end of 2010 any change in the controversial law seemed more remote than ever.”
According to the report, at least 64 people were charged under the blasphemy law in 2010 and many of them were imprisoned. Besides, three men accused of blasphemy were killed in police custody though the charges against them were not proved.
Commenting on the prevailing climate within the country vis-à-vis religious freedom that has been provided in the Constitution, the HRCP said: “Vigilantes and radical elements continued to treat as fair game anyone accused of blasphemy, or anyone voicing support for such accused.”
While prejudices among the law enforcement personnel prevented them from providing effective protection to religious minorities, the government's failure to address religious persecution by Islamist groups contributed to the atrocities on religious groups “who were vulnerable on account of their beliefs”. This includes Ahmadis and minority sects of Islam in a country dominated by the Sunni school of thought. While 99 Ahmadis were killed, sectarian violence consumed 418 lives.
“Extremist views grew more vociferous as voices endorsing basic human rights and tolerance became more isolated and muted in the face of violence and intimidation.” Completing the bleak picture was the observation that while there is a growing feeling of lack of effective representation in Parliament for non-Muslim citizens under the joint electorate system, the possibility of holding to account lawmakers nominated to seats reserved for minorities was also shrinking.
