LAHORE: The National Commission on the Rights of Child (NCRC) launched two major reports highlighting critical issues affecting children in Pakistan: “State of Children in Pakistan 2024” and “Situation Analysis of Children from Minority Religions in Pakistan.”
The event in Lahore brought together government officials, civil society leaders, academics, law enforcement, and development partners.
NCRC Chairperson Ms. Ayesha Raza Farooq emphasized the Commission’s role as an independent watchdog. She noted that despite progress in areas like birth registration and legal reform, millions of children remain vulnerable due to fragmented efforts and weak coordination.
She urged collective action to harmonize child protection laws, raise the legal age of marriage, and ensure inclusive education.
Dr. Mehek Naeem, Member Punjab-NCRC, presented findings from the State of Children report, highlighting issues such as child labor, early marriage, education gaps, and violence. She pointed to glaring inequalities in Punjab and called the report a guide for targeted policy action.
Mr. Pirbhu Lal Satyani, Member Sindh/Minorities, introduced the second report, which focuses on the challenges faced by children from religious minorities. These include forced conversions, child labor, limited access to education, and discrimination in public services. He described the report as a call for urgent and inclusive reforms.
The panel discussion featured experts from various sectors. Peter Jacob spoke on forced conversions and the need for legal protection. Dr. Tahir Kamran highlighted curricular biases and historical marginalization. Baela Jamil called for inclusive education reforms.
Advocate Miqdad Naqvi stressed legal gaps and the need for law enforcement training. Mary James Gill raised concerns about minority children in sanitation work. Mustansir Feroze introduced the Misaq Minorities Centers, which provide services to marginalized groups.
Closing the event, Punjab Minister for Human Rights and Minorities Affairs, Mr. Ramesh Singh Arora, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to equal rights for all children. He said the reports offer clear data and direction to move forward with focused efforts.
