Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 01:32pm on 15 Aug 2026,Saturday International
Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari sparked controversy after saying the country “tolerates” its Hindu population. Speaking on Pakistan’s Independence Day, Zardari claimed Hindus make up 3–4% of the population and said they are free in Pakistan. However, Pakistan’s 2023 census puts the Hindu population at 5.2 million, or 2.17%. His remarks have drawn criticism over the treatment of religious minorities. Rights groups have reported cases of forced conversions, abductions and violence against Hindu and Christian communities. Pakistan’s Constitution promises religious freedom, but critics say the word “tolerate” raises questions about whether minorities receive equal rights.
