Speakers at a minorities convention in Lahore called for separate constituencies to be reserved for minority groups in order to address their concerns over the current system of representation. The convention, organized by a social welfare organization at the Lahore Press Club, aimed to highlight the need for urgent reforms that respect the democratic rights of minority communities.
Rwadari Tehreek Pakistan, a prominent organization advocating for minority rights, proposed that separate constituencies should be designated to fill the reserved seats for minorities. This would allow minority members of parliament to be elected through direct elections, constituency-wise or division-wise, based on the votes of minority voters themselves. The convention was chaired by human rights defender Saeeda Diep and included speakers such as Rwadari Tehreek Pakistan Chairman Samson Salamat, former provincial minister for Human Rights & Minorities Affairs Ijaz Alam Augustine, and PTI’s Shoaib Nabi Gill.
The demand for separate constituencies stems from the belief that it would better ensure the representation of minority communities and enable them to choose their own representatives in a democratic manner. The current system, often criticized for its inadequacy, has prompted calls for reforms that prioritize the democratic rights of minorities.
Speaking at the convention, Samson Salamat, Chairman of Rwadari Tehreek Pakistan, emphasized the importance of empowering minority communities through meaningful representation. He stated, Separate constituencies for minorities will allow us to address their unique needs and concerns effectively. It is essential that their voice is heard and their rightful place in the democratic process is secured.
Ijaz Alam Augustine, former provincial minister for Human Rights & Minorities Affairs, echoed these sentiments, saying, We must ensure that the democratic rights of minorities are respected, and that they have a genuine say in the election of their representatives. Separate constituencies will be a step in the right direction towards achieving this goal.
The convention provided a platform for discussions on the challenges faced by minority communities in the current political landscape. By proposing separate constituencies, the speakers aimed to initiate a dialogue and push for tangible reforms that uphold the democratic principles of inclusivity and representation.
The demand for separate constituencies for minorities has gained traction over the years, with advocates arguing that it would not only address the concerns of minority communities but also foster a stronger sense of political participation and empowerment. If implemented, this proposal could potentially pave the way for a more inclusive and representative political system in Pakistan.
As the convention concluded, the call for urgent reforms to the system of representation on reserved seats for minorities stood firm. It remains to be seen how these demands will be received by policymakers and how they will shape the future of minority representation in Pakistan’s democratic landscape. Nonetheless, the voices advocating for change and greater inclusivity have sparked a vital conversation that seeks to ensure the democratic rights of minorities are upheld and protected.
