Q. 1128 Migration of Hindus from Pakistan and Bangladesh

Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to satate :-

(a) the number of Hindus who have migrated from Pakistan and Bangladesh and taken refuse in India during last three years;

(b) the main reasons for coming in India after migration from Pakistan and Bangladesh; and

(c) the efforts made by Government to prevent the Hindus migrating from Pakistan and Bangladesh and make them stay there only?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS (SHRI E. AHAMED)

(a) to (c) Government has from time to time come across reports of problems being faced by members of minority communities in foreign countries including, in some countries, of Hindu minorities. Some Pakistani nationals belonging to minority communities including Hindus, who entered India on valid visas have not gone back to Pakistan on the grounds of religious persecution. Representations have also been received requesting for allowing extension of visas of such Pakistani nationals, and also for permitting them to apply for Long Term Visa (LTV).

It is the primary responsibility of foreign Governments to discharge their obligations towards all their citizens including those that belong to their minority communities. Though the ‘Simla Agreement’ with Pakistan specifically provides for non-interference in each others’ internal affairs, nevertheless, based on reports of persecution of minority groups in Pakistan, Government has taken up the matter with the Government of Pakistan. The Government of Pakistan has stated that it was fully cognizant of the situation and looked after the welfare of all its citizens, particularly the minority community. The Government of Bangladesh has been reiterating its commitment to safeguarding minority rights within the legal framework of Bangladesh’s constitution.

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