Seeking Safety: The Plight of Pakistani Hindus Migrating to India

Source article from ECPSE.org

In an ongoing struggle against escalating religious intolerance, discrimination, and persecution, a significant number of Pakistani Hindus have been forced to flee their homeland. Approximately 800 individuals sought refuge in India, driven by the dire circumstances they faced in Pakistan. This migration, highlighted by the advocacy group Seemant Lok Sangathan (SLS), underscores the severe challenges faced by religious minorities in Pakistan.

The Roadblocks to Indian Citizenship

While India might seem a sanctuary for these displaced individuals, their path to securing Indian citizenship has been fraught with challenges. Despite the introduction of an online citizenship application process in 2018, designed to streamline applications from persecuted minorities from neighboring countries like Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh, many migrants have faced long delays. Dishearteningly, some of these Pakistani Hindus have returned to their country, stigmatized and disheartened by the stagnant process. This situation has cast a shadow over the efforts of India’s Ministry of Home Affairs, signaling a need for more efficient handling of such sensitive humanitarian issues.

Currently, in Rajasthan alone, there are still about 25,000 Pakistani Hindus awaiting their fate regarding citizenship. Shockingly, some have been in this limbo for over two decades. Despite amendments in 2015 to the citizenship rules—allowing migrants from six religious communities, including Hindus, who fled to India due to persecution on or before December 2014, to legalize their stay — the journey towards becoming a citizen remains cumbersome.

The Hardships Back Home

Back in Pakistan, Hindus represent the largest minority community with an estimated population of 7.5 million, primarily residing in the Sindh province. This community has been a target of periodic violence, including heinous acts such as abductions of young Hindu girls, forced marriages, and conversions, as well as other forms of violent persecution. These harrowing conditions have left many with no choice but to leave everything behind in search of a safer life.

Addressing a Humanitarian Issue

This ongoing crisis highlights a significant humanitarian issue that requires prompt and decisive actions from all involved nations. Streamlining the citizenship process and providing immediate support to those seeking refuge should be a priority to uphold the values of human rights and dignity.

How You Can Help

Consider advocating for faster processing and better support systems for refugees like the Pakistani Hindus in India. Get informed, raise awareness, and reach out to organizations working on the ground to offer support. Every effort counts in the fight against injustice and in helping these individuals start a new chapter of their lives with dignity and safety.

**Take action today and help make a difference in the lives of people seeking a new beginning away from persecution and fear.**