ONE of the core problems affecting development and growth of Pakistan is unequal treatment of citizens.

There is not a single country where one religion, one sect, or one class of people live. You will find a blend of different cultures in every society or country. Islam is the religion of peace and harmony. Its teachings tell us to live with love and affection with each other.

Not only this but in the times of the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him), real examples were also set. People were very happy to live in such societies because they were equally treated.

The dilemma is that in our country minorities are swamped with problems. Either it may be Hindus or Christians, Muslim minorities in sects or minorities in relation to ethnic groups, the rule of thumb that might is right is followed.

Recently you must have heard about the forced conversions in Sindh.

The voices were rising for unfairness from the Hindu community. I don’t know to what extent the grievances were right but past history shows that the minorities’ rights are disregarded and our state has failed to shelter them.

Hindus are old inhabitants of Pakistan and they didn’t leave these parts at the time of separation due to their strong adoration for the land.

It is injustice that our laws and so-called righteous people have always left them helpless. For years, Hindus have been persecuted in various ways, like kidnapping for ransom, theft of their money and illegal attempts to occupy their properties, but the recent act of coerced conversions is quite regrettable.

In Sindh’s interior, kidnapping of Hindus for ransom is a common offence.

I would like to quote here that three years ago a renowned psychiatrist/neurologist at Hira Medical Centre, Sukkur, was also threatened to pay a huge amount of ransom. As a result, the doctor left the country forthright to save his life and his family.

These 2.5 per cent of our population are patriotic people and should be allowed to live in peace.

MANZOOR HUSSAIN RAJPER Khairpur Mirs