Question : HINDUS MALTREATED IN PAKISTAN

(a) whether the Government is aware that the Hindus are being treated unfairly in Pakistan;

(b) if so, whether the matter was raised with the Government of Pakistan during his recent visit;

(c) if so, the details in this regard and the reaction of the Pakistani Government thereto;

(d) whether the Hindus and Sikhs living in Pakistan want to settle in India due to harassment being meted out to them;

(e) if so, whether the Government has received any applications in this regard; and

(f) if so, the details thereof and the reaction of the Government thereon?

MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS (SHRI S.M. KRISHNA)

(a) to (f): Government has seen media reports of unfair treatment to citizens of Pakistan belonging to minority groups, including Hindus.

It has also seen reports that some citizens of Pakistan belonging to minority groups, especially Hindus and Sikhs, have expressed their desire to settle in India. It is the responsibility of the Government of Pakistan to discharge its obligations towards its citizens. However, based on reports of persecution of minority groups in Pakistan, Government has taken up this 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.