Q. 3799 Migration of Hindus from Pakistan

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

(a) whether a number of Hindus and Sikhs have migrated from Pakistan to India on account of religious persecution;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether the Government has taken up the issue with the Government of Pakistan;

(d) if so, the response of the Government of Pakistan thereto; and

(e) the other action taken by the Government in this regard?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS (SHRIMATI PRENEET KAUR)

(a) & (b) Government has seen reports that some Pakistani nationals belonging to minority communities including Hindus, who came to India on valid visas have not gone back to Pakistan on the grounds of religious persecution in Pakistan. Representations have been received requesting for allowing extension of visas of such Pakistani nationals and also for permitting them to apply for Long Term Visa (LTV).

(c) to (e) While, the Simla Agreement of 1972 between India and Pakistan specifically provides for non-interference in each other’s internal affairs, nevertheless, 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. A demarche was made with Pakistan on May 8, 2012 conveying India’s serious concerns on the matter of abduction, forced conversion and marriage of Hindu girls against their will to Muslim men in Pakistan. It was conveyed that it is our expectation that the Government of Pakistan will look after the well being of its minority communities and discharge its responsibility in this regard. Pakistan side responded that the Government of Pakistan is seized of the matter and the Supreme Court of Pakistan has taken up the issue and that the Government of Pakistan provides full protection to all minorities.

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