To Hindus in a Sindh district - Clear area or face death! (Excerpt)

Author:
Publication: Human Rights and Commission of Pakistan
Date: September 12, 2005
URL: http://www.hrcp-web.org/P_releases.cfm

Attacks on minorities: Non-Muslims across the country are facing an accelerating threat of violence. HRCP recently received a copy of a 'Fatwa' issued in Kumri, in the Umerkot district of Sindh, warning Hindus that they must clear the area or face death. The Hindu community was also warned acid would be thrown on their women. Similar violence has been threatened against non-Muslim citizens in the NWFP, where temples have been attacked in several instances. The impunity available to the culprits can only encourage others to perpetuate similar atrocities against non-Muslim citizens. The text-books produced by the government in the Punjab, and also other provinces, include material that is derogatory to religions other than Islam. HRCP also strongly denounces statements, such as the one made recently by a minister of the NWFP government, attacking Ahmadis. These statements belie official claims of guaranteeing protection for non-Muslim citizens, and can only add to the prevailing discrimination and hostility they suffer.

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