GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
Ministry of External Affairs
RAJYA SABHA
UNSTARRED QUESTION NO: 1570
TO BE ANSWERED ON 03.12.2009
Misery of Hindu Pakistani Nationals
1570. Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar:
Will the Minister of External Affairs be pleased to state:
(a) whether the Hindu Pakistani nationals who came to India over the last few years and not returned to Pakistan for fear of persecution are languishing in border areas and leading a life of misery;
(b) if so, whether this case has been discussed with Government of Pakistan, as persecution of minorities in two countries violates the Nehru-Liyaquat pact;
(c) if so, details of protest lodged with Pakistan and their reaction thereto; and
(d) whether international forums like UN Commission for Refugees have been apprised about their plight, if so, the results thereof?
ANSWER
THE MINISTER OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS
(Shri S. M Krishna)
(a) , (b) and (c) There have been instances of persecution of minority groups in Pakistan. However, the precise reason for overstay in India of those individuals who came from Pakistan to India over the last few years is not established.
The Simla Agreement between India and Pakistan specifically made provision for non-interference in each other’s internal affairs. 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 separately taken up the 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.
(d) NO.