April 18, 2025
By Rana Malhi
ISLAMABAD
In a significant move towards institutionalizing the protection of minority rights in Pakistan, a sub-committee of the Senate Standing Committee on Human Rights convened at the Parliament House in Islamabad this week, to review and finalize the much-anticipated National Commission for Minorities Bill, 2025.
Chaired by Senator Barrister Syed Ali Zafar, the meeting brought together prominent minority lawmakers and government representatives, including Federal Minister for Law and Human Rights Senator Azam Nazir Tarar, Senator Khalil Tahir, Senator Danesh Kumar, Senator Gurdeep Singh, Minister Kesoo Mal Kheal Das, and Members of the National Assembly Dr. Darshan and Naveed Amir.
“This is a historic day for minorities — one that will be remembered in the future,” said Senator Ali Zafar while chairing the session. “Just as commissions exist for human rights and women’s rights, a commission for minorities is now being established.”
During the meeting, Minister Azam Nazir Tarar shared the outcomes of his recent consultation with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. He revealed that the commission will include eight members — four nominated by the government and four by Parliament. A special Parliamentary Committee will oversee the nominations, with equal input from both the National Assembly and the Senate. Each house will nominate one member from the treasury and one from the opposition benches.
According to the draft, one Grade-21 officer each from the Ministry of Human Rights, Ministry of Law and Justice, Ministry of Interfaith Harmony, and Ministry of Interior will also be part of the commission. The chairman and provincial members will serve a three-year term. The Prime Minister will directly oversee both the formation and the functioning of the commission.
Additionally, two minority representatives from each province — Pakistani citizens over the age of 35 with demonstrated expertise in human rights advocacy — will be considered for nomination. While preference will be given to parliamentary members, the criteria emphasize practical experience and community involvement.
“This will be an independent bill,” former Senator Khalil Tahir Sandhu told Voicepk.net. “It has long been a demand of the minority community to have a dedicated forum that can resolve their issues.”
Senator Danesh Kumar, also speaking to Voicepk.net, confirmed that the bill was passed unanimously by the committee following comprehensive consultations. “All stakeholders were taken into confidence. The commission will have representation from all minority groups,” he assured.
Renowned writer and human rights activist Abdul Hameed Nayyar, who was among those consulted during the drafting process, praised the government’s inclusivity. “All of our suggestions were incorporated into the bill,” he said. “We hope the commission will be empowered and play an effective role in addressing the challenges faced by minorities.”
In a rare show of unity, the committee agreed on two key points: the nomination process for the commission will be completed within 30 days of the public notice, and the full structure will be finalized within 45 days.
“We are not only working to form a commission — we are setting the foundation for a stronger, more inclusive democracy,” said Senator Zafar, underlining the urgency and importance of the initiative.
The establishment of a National Commission for Minorities has long been a demand of civil society and Pakistan’s diverse minority communities. While earlier attempts have been made to create such bodies, many lacked legal backing or autonomy, limiting their effectiveness.
The proposed bill, if passed and implemented as envisioned, will not only provide legal cover but also empower the commission to act proactively on issues facing minority groups.
As the committee moves closer to finalizing the commission’s framework, minority leaders and rights activists are hopeful that this time, the promises will lead to real, tangible change.