Q.*294 Minorities in Pakistan

Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Government has any information in regard to the alleged atrocities committed on Hindus, Sikhs and other minorities in Pakistan;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) the number of families/persons who have come to India and sought asylum/ refugee status during the last three years and the current year alongwith the number of families/persons who have returned back to Pakistan during the said period;
(d) the reaction of the Government in this regard and the details of assistance provided to them;
(e) whether the Government has taken up the matter with the Government of Pakistan; and
(f) if so, the reaction of the Government of Pakistan thereto and other steps taken by the Government in this regard?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS (SHRI S.M. KRISHNA)

(a) & (b) Sir, Government has from time to time come across reports on the problems faced by members of the minority communities in Pakistan. Incidents of persecution and intimidation of the minority communities have been reported.

(c) to (f) Government has seen reports that a number of Pakistani nationals belonging to the minority communities visit India and apply for long-term visas. It is the responsibility of the Government of Pakistan to discharge its obligations towards its citizens, including those from the minority community. However, based on reports of persecution of minority groups in Pakistan, Government had taken up the matter with the Government of Pakistan. The Government of Pakistan stated that it was fully cognizant of the situation and looked after the welfare of all its citizens, particularly the minority community.

http://www.mea.gov.in/mystart.php?id=220217419.