Book-Nationalism or Racialism Volume 1
Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the revered founder of Pakistan, envisioned a nation based on the principles of democracy and unity. The name "Pakistan" itself, derived from the Urdu word "Pak," translates to "Holy" in English. Jinnah emphasized that a country's identity transcends religious boundaries, fostering a sense of nationalism among its people.
However, the reality for minorities in Pakistan, particularly Christians, presents a different narrative. Despite the country's creation through the collective votes of Christians and Muslims, the treatment of minorities remains a complex issue. The term "minority" carries a discriminatory connotation, limiting freedoms of opinion, thought, and even the practice of one's faith.
The existing challenges include forced conversions, violence against Christian communities, and discrimination. Even the sacred teachings of Islam, emphasizing peace, stand in contrast to the actions of those who undermine human values and rights.
The Two-Nation Theory, conceived by Allama Iqbal, originally aimed to address the concerns of Muslims and Hindus. However, in the present context, Pakistan's existence hinges on the contributions of both Muslim and Christian communities. Christianity, known for its principles of peace and tolerance, seldom demands excessive rights but seeks fair opportunities for employment in all sectors.
Regrettably, after 76 years, minorities in Pakistan find themselves without stability, facing discrimination in daily life and government departments. There are instances of religious organizations forcefully converting Christians, despite Islam explicitly rejecting coercion in matters of faith.
The uncertainty surrounding the lives, employment, and daily existence of minorities raises questions about the vision of a tolerant and inclusive Pakistan. Civil society organizations advocating for peace find themselves vulnerable to terrorist threats, highlighting the broader issue of diminishing freedom of expression.
The existing government departments seem inadequate in ensuring justice and law enforcement, with the rich often having preferential treatment. The economic policies contribute to an environment of conflict, deception, and extremism, hindering the progress of the entire nation.
In the eyes of the world, Pakistan faces challenges such as crime, terrorism, and economic instability. The dream of a prosperous and just Pakistan, envisioned by Iqbal and Jinnah, seems compromised by internal conflicts, corruption, and a focus on personal interests rather than collective progress
It is time for political, religious, and liberal parties to unite for the stability of human rights in Pakistan. Media, too, should prioritize promoting human values over personal or religious interests. The perception of Pakistan as a country plagued by crime and corruption should be a concern for every citizen, prompting a collective effort toward positive change.
As Pakistanis, our identity should be defined by our nationality rather than religious affiliations. The discrimination faced by minorities reflects poorly on the international stage, undermining the reputation of all Pakistanis. It is crucial to address these issues collectively, focusing on the shared values that can unite us as a nation.