PESHAWAR: The Pakistan Council of World Religions – Faith Friends (PCWR-FF) has expressed satisfaction over the passage of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Kalash Marriage Act by the Provincial Assembly.
It described it as a historic milestone for the protection of the identity, dignity, and constitutional rights of the Kalasha community.
The organization highlighted that this achievement is the result of years of continuous research, advocacy, consultation, and engagement with stakeholders.
The journey began in 2017, when PCWR-FF conducted a comprehensive research study to identify the legal and social challenges faced by the Kalasha community regarding marriage registration and family rights.
In 2020, the initial draft of the proposed Kalasha Marriage Bill was prepared by a Kalasha legal advocate, laying the foundation for future legislative work. Building upon this initiative, in 2022, with the support of the Local Government Department, PCWR-FF facilitated the engagement of a legal consultant to prepare the draft legislation and advance the legal reform process.
Throughout this journey, Mr. Wazirzada, the respected political leader of the Kalasha community, remained closely associated with PCWR-FF in its advocacy and lobbying efforts for the enactment of the Kalasha Marriage Act.
Following the passage of the Act by the Provincial Assembly, Mr. Wazirzada personally contacted Mr. Maqsood Ahmad Salafi, Focal Person of PCWR-FF, to congratulate him on his persistent efforts.
He also extended his heartfelt appreciation to Qari Roohullah Madani, Chairman of PCWR-FF, and the entire team for their unwavering commitment and dedicated services that contributed to this historic legislative success.
Speaking on the occasion, Chairman Qari Roohullah Madani stated that the enactment of the Kalasha Marriage Act is a significant step toward ensuring equal rights, legal recognition, and social protection for one of Pakistan’s most unique indigenous communities.
He reaffirmed PCWR-FF’s commitment to promoting interfaith harmony, human rights, and equal citizenship for all religious communities in Pakistan.
PCWR-FF extends its sincere congratulations to the Kalasha community, Mr. Wazirzada, the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, members of the Provincial Assembly, civil society organizations, and all individuals who contributed to making this landmark legislation a reality.
