The International Human Rights Committee (IHRC) has issued a strong condemnation regarding the recent demolition of an Ahmadiyya place of worship in Sindh, Pakistan. This incident, which occurred under pressure from local extremists, underscores a troubling trend of intolerance and discrimination faced by the Ahmadiyya community in the country. The IHRC expressed grave concern over the targeting of religious minorities, highlighting that such acts are not only violations of freedom of religion but also contribute to an atmosphere of fear and insecurity.
According to the IHRC, on May 14, a protest was staged by opponents of the Ahmadiyya Muslim community in the Karundi region, demanding the demolition of their worship site in Jamalpur. The protest escalated, resulting in local authorities responding to the mob's demands rather than safeguarding the rights of the Ahmadiyya community. Subsequently, the minarets of the worship site were demolished, and the prayer niche was sealed with bricks, reflecting a serious failure of state protection.
- Escalating attacks — The demolition reflects a broader pattern of attacks on Ahmadiyya worship sites.
- Call for accountability — IHRC urges Pakistani authorities to investigate and hold accountable those inciting hatred.
- International scrutiny — The IHRC appeals for global condemnation of the targeted attacks against Ahmadis.
The IHRC emphasized that the destruction of religious structures belonging to the Ahmadiyya community constitutes a severe violation of their rights. The rights organization noted that compliance with extremist demands cannot be justified as law enforcement, and the authorities have a duty to protect all citizens, including religious minorities, from violence and intimidation.
In light of these events, the IHRC has called upon the government of Pakistan and the provincial authorities in Sindh to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the demolition of the worship site. They also urged the government to take decisive action against individuals who incited hatred and violence. Furthermore, the IHRC implored the international community, including UN human rights bodies and civil society organizations, to take a stand against such violations and advocate for the rights of the Ahmadiyya community.
