Balochistan Assembly passes resolution on women and minority rights

The Balochistan Assembly on Monday passed a joint resolution on women’s rights after a detailed debate and also approved a separate resolution focusing on the protection of minority rights in the province, 24NewsHD TV reported.

The minority rights resolution was presented by MPA Maulana Hidayat-ur-Rehman, calling for stronger legal and institutional safeguards for minority communities in Balochistan.

The resolution stated that Balochistan is a multi-cultural and historically significant province where different minority communities have lived peacefully and in harmony for centuries.

It noted that these communities have played an important role in the province’s cultural, religious, social, economic and educational development.

However, it highlighted that minorities currently face several challenges, including a lack of equal opportunities in education, social and economic sectors, weak political representation, and occasional incidents of discrimination.

The resolution said these issues violate human dignity and also hinder overall development and social harmony.

It urged the provincial government to introduce effective laws for the protection of minority rights and ensure their inclusion through training programmes, professional opportunities, and safeguards for religious practices, culture and language.

The resolution also called for the protection of places of worship and community centres, as well as stronger representation of minorities at all levels of decision-making.

It further stated that Islam promotes respect for humanity and that the Constitution of Pakistan guarantees equal rights to all citizens.

After debate, the House approved the resolution.

During the session, a quorum was pointed out, after which the proceedings of the Balochistan Assembly were adjourned until 3 pm on May 14. 

Reporter: Essa Tareen