ISLAMABAD: The Senate Sub-Committee on Human Rights, chaired by Convener Senator Ali Zafar, has approved a bill to establish an empowered National Commission for Minority Rights in line with the United Nations and international human rights standards.
According to reports, the proposed commission will consist of 13 members. Each province will have two minority representatives — one of whom must be a woman, while the other will represent the largest minority community in that province. Additionally, one minority member will be appointed from the federal capital, Islamabad.
The commission will also include one Grade-21 officer each from the Ministry of Human Rights, Ministry of Law and Justice, Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, and Ministry of Interior. The chairman of the commission, along with all provincial members, will serve a three-year term.
Speaking to the media, Senator Ali Zafar described the day as historic for the rights of minorities in Pakistan. He emphasized that just as there are commissions for human rights and women’s rights, the government is now forming a dedicated and empowered commission for minorities that will operate in accordance with international norms and be directly overseen by the Prime Minister.
“This is a landmark step that will be remembered in the future,” Senator Zafar added.
