Pakistan Moves to Protecting Minority Rights

Pakistan’s parliament passed the Minorities Rights Bill 2025 on December 2 with a vote of 160–79, despite opposition from Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) (JUI-F).

The bill fulfills a 2014 Supreme Court order to create an independent body to protect non-Muslim minorities.

President Asif Ali Zardari had earlier returned the bill over concerns about Islamic compliance.

After consultations with religious leaders, revisions were made in August 2025 to align the bill with the Quran and Sunnah while major objections were resolved.

The law establishes an autonomous commission of 18 members, led by a minority chairperson with at least 10 members from minority communities.

The Commission can take Suo motu action, meaning the Commission can start an investigation by itself even if no one reports a problem, carry out investigations and recommend prosecutions.

A National Council for Minorities, regional sub-offices and a mandatory National Action Plan will also be formed.

The Commission will receive a dedicated federal budget, and the law applies only to non-Muslim minorities.

As outlined in the original text of the Bill, it strengthens Pakistan’s constitutional protection of all citizens and improves national cohesion. (Agencies)