Additionally, the government has undertaken important legislative steps to address the
challenges faced by minorities and to promote a more inclusive society. The
implementation of these laws, however, often falls short. While these steps reflect
Pakistan's ongoing efforts to address the challenges faced by minorities and to promote a
more inclusive society, continued efforts and vigilance are necessary to ensure the full
protection of minority rights. Some key laws and provisions in this regard include:
The Constitution of Pakistan (1973)
Pakistan Penal Code (1860)
Article 20: Provides the freedom to
profess and practice one’s religion and
to establish, maintain and manage
religious institutions.
Article 21: Prohibits any imposition of tax
based on religion.
Article 22: States that no one attending
an educational institution is required to
receive education, instruction or to
participate in any religious ceremony that
is not their own.
Article 25: Ensures equality of all citizens
before the law and prohibits
discrimination on the basis of sex alone.
Article 26: Guarantees nondiscrimination in respect of access to
places of public entertainment or resort.
Article 27: Prohibits discrimination in
services.
Article 33: Article 33 of the Constitution
included in the Principles of Policy casts
an obligation on the State to discourage
parochial, racial, tribal, sectarian and
provincial prejudice.
Article 36: Also a Principle of Policy,
points to the importance of protection of
the legitimate rights of minorities and
their due representation on the Federal
and Provincial level.
Section 153-A: Criminalizes acts
promoting enmity between different
groups on grounds of religion, race,
place of birth, residence, language, etc.,
and acts prejudicial to the maintenance
of harmony.
Section 295-A: Punishes deliberate and
malicious acts intended to outrage
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