**Protection of Minority Children’s Rights Is a Shared Responsibility of the State and Society: Senator Samina Mumtaz Zehri**

**Islamabad/Quetta —** Chairperson of the Senate Standing Committee on Human Rights, **Senator Samina Mumtaz Zehri**, has said that safeguarding the rights of children belonging to minority religions in Pakistan is not only a **constitutional obligation** but also a **national and moral responsibility**.

She expressed these views while addressing the launch ceremony of a report titled *“The Situation of Children Belonging to Religious Minorities in Pakistan”* prepared by the **National Commission on the Rights of the Child (NCRC)**. The event was attended by **members of parliament, civil society representatives, human rights activists, and leaders of minority communities**.

Senator Zehri commended the NCRC for what she described as a “mirror reflecting the silent struggles, hopes, and realities of those children who represent Pakistan’s beautiful religious diversity.”

Emphasizing that **Islam stands for justice, equality, and compassion**, she noted that the **Constitution of Pakistan guarantees equal rights and opportunities** to all citizens regardless of religion, color, or language. She specifically cited **Articles 20, 21, 22, 26, and 27**, which ensure freedom of religion and non-discriminatory access to education.

Addressing the sensitive issues of **forced conversions and underage marriages of minority girls**, Senator Zehri called them “serious violations of both human rights and Islamic principles,” urging the government to take **immediate and decisive action**.

She announced that the **Senate Functional Committee on Human Rights** will formally review the report’s findings and, in collaboration with the **NCRC**, the **Ministry of Human Rights**, and the **National Curriculum Council**, will begin **public hearings** aimed at transforming the report’s recommendations into **practical policy reforms**.

“We must build a Pakistan where no child is deprived of education or opportunity because of their faith — where a Hindu, Christian, Sikh, or Muslim child can live with equal dignity and confidence,” she said.

In a heartfelt message to minority children, Senator Zehri concluded:

> “You are seen, you are valued, and you are part of this nation.”

At the close of the ceremony, representatives from Parliament, the NCRC, and civil society reaffirmed their collective commitment to building a **just, inclusive, and compassionate society** where **every child’s rights and dignity are fully respected**.