CJP urges against forceful conversion of Kalash tribe

Chief Justice Saqib Nisar on Wednesday expressed displeasure and urged against the forceful conversion of Kalash community members, reported Express News.

“They should not be forced to convert. It is a matter of basic rights.”

The chief justice was presiding over a case pertaining to illegal encroachments on land belonging to the community in Chitral. The community had earlier submitted a petition stating that a man, Maqsoodul Mulk, was trying to snatch their property.

During the hearing, the additional advocate general informed the apex court that a lower trial court had ruled in favour of the minority but the decision had been challenged in the provincial high court.

The top judge also remarked that the community’s land should not be encroached upon, citing the decreasing population of the community and urged the government to ensure that the Kalash community enjoyed full freedom and rights in Chitral. “They should not be forced to convert. It is a matter of basic rights.”

Pakistan’s smallest religious minority, the Kalash speak their own language and celebrate their religion through music and dance.

The top court adjourned the hearing until October 31.

Source: Express Tribune