KARACHI: The Sindh Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has taken notice of a police officer’s wrongful actions and recommended action against him to serve justice in the matter.

SHRC chairperson retired Justice Majida Rizvi took notice of a disturbing video circulating on social media that shows a policeman preventing a shopkeeper from displaying his community’s religious sentiments.

“The act goes against Article 20 of the Constitution, which guarantees the freedom to profess and manage religious institutions. It also runs counter to a landmark judgement by former chief justice of Pakistan Tassaduq Hussain Jillani on minority rights issued on June 19, 2014,” she said.

Referring to the video, the SHRC chairperson called for holding the responsible police officer accountable for his actions.

Following SHRC’s intervention, the police officer was suspended pending further disciplinary action.

The SHRC has strongly condemned the police officer’s action and asked the Sukkur DIG and Ghotki SSP to review the case and take necessary disciplinary action against the perpetrator.

“Furthermore, the Sindh government must conduct an inquiry into the matter and ensure that justice is served,” it said.

“The SHRC reaffirms its commitment to protecting the fundamental rights of all citizens, regardless of their religion or beliefs.”

Published in Dawn, March 25th, 2023

Opinion

Editorial

Weathering the storm
Updated 29 Apr, 2024

Weathering the storm

Let 2024 be the year when we all proactively ensure that our communities are safeguarded and that the future is secure against the inevitable next storm.
Afghan repatriation
29 Apr, 2024

Afghan repatriation

COMPARED to the roughshod manner in which the caretaker set-up dealt with the issue, the elected government seems a...
Trying harder
29 Apr, 2024

Trying harder

IT is a relief that Pakistan managed to salvage some pride. Pakistan had taken the lead, then fell behind before...
Return to the helm
Updated 28 Apr, 2024

Return to the helm

With Nawaz Sharif as PML-N president, will we see more grievances being aired?
Unvaxxed & vulnerable
Updated 28 Apr, 2024

Unvaxxed & vulnerable

Even deadly mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue and malaria have vaccines, but they are virtually unheard of in Pakistan.
Gaza’s hell
Updated 28 Apr, 2024

Gaza’s hell

Perhaps Western ‘statesmen’ may moderate their policies if a significant percentage of voters punish them at the ballot box.