Lahore: Rwadari Tehreek-Pakistan organized an Public Forum at Lahore Press Club to highlight concerns about growing authoritarianism and erosion of democratic principles in Pakistan. The event, held on International Human Rights Day, December 10, 2025, focused on issues like rule of law, human rights protection, and independent functioning of democratic institutions, which are often compromised by military influence and political instability.   

The event which was aimed to raise awareness and spark discussion on these critical issues affecting Pakistan's democracy and human rights landscape, also expressed outrage and concern over the rampant misuse of blasphemy laws, forced conversions of minority girls, and rejection of pro-minority legislation. They demanded immediate government action to enact effective legislation stopping forced conversions, strategies to stop misuse of blasphemy laws and protecting minority rights.

The forum criticized the state's negligence, particularly the parliament, human rights and minorities affairs ministries & departments, and judiciary, for failing to provide timely justice and protect minorities from violence and persecution.

In the beginning of the event, renowned revolutionary singing group Lal Band, led by Dr. Taimur Rehman, performed powerful revolutionary songs at Rwadari Tehreek Pakistan's Public Forum, aiming to mobilize the public and strengthen resistance against attacks on democracy, fundamental rights, and human rights. This portion of the event also highlighted the struggle of marginalized groups for their rights, particularly religious minorities, who face persecution through misuse of blasphemy laws, forced religious conversions, and mob violence. The performance sought to amplify voices and unite people against these injustices, promoting a more inclusive and equitable society.

The Public Forum was participated and addressed by Samson Salamat (Chairman Rwadari Tehreek), Saeeda Diep (Chairperson, CPSS), Kathrine Sapna Karamat (Executive Director CTS), Asher Sarfraz (CEO CTS), Irfan Mufti (Convener, Joint Ation Committee for Peoples Rights), Barrister Amir Hassan (Pakistan Peoples Party), Mr. Farooq Tariq (President, Haqooq-e-Khalq Party), Muzamil Kakar (Haqooq-e-Khalq Party), Comrade Irfan Ali (Mazdoor Kisan Party), Jalvat Ali (Chairperson, Home based workers Union Punjab), Saleem Bhatti (Deputy Information Secretary PPP, Rev. Reubin Qamar (Moderator, Presbyterian Church of Pakistan), Shiba Gill (Journalist), Adnan Shamim Bhatti Advocate, Nadeem Hassan Advocate,  and Amir Sohail Teja Advocate. 

The speakers and participants of the Public Forum  tabled following demands and recommendations for Strengthening Democracy and Human Rights in Pakistan on International Human Rights Day:

A) State institutions should stick to their constitutional roles and avoid authoritarian amendments, while political parties and stakeholders should make the system more inclusive and people-centric. This can be achieved by boosting civic participation, ensuring rule of law, promoting transparency, and fighting corruption. The focus should be on creating a responsive and resilient political system that serves the people, not just a select few.

B) an immediate lift on all bans and restrictions imposed on freedom of expression, freedom of association, and freedom of assembly. These undemocratic restrictions, often justified as necessary for national security or public order, have been used to stifle dissent, silence critics, intimidate activists and political opponents.  The authorities are urged to respect and protect these fundamental rights, essential for a healthy democracy and the well-being of citizens.

C) Extremist outfits and individuals spreading hate and violence against minorities under the guise of blasphemy laws must be banned and prosecuted. We suggest a "Grand Dialogue" in parliament to address the misuse of these laws and discuss ways to prevent fake allegations, mob violence, and attacks on minorities. 

D) There is an urgent need for comprehensive legislation to criminalize forced religious conversions of minority girls and boys, particularly from Christian, Hindu, and other communities. The repeated rejection of pro-minority legislation has left these communities feeling deeply saddened and disappointed, as their voices are seemingly ignored. It's time for the government to listen and act, enacting laws that protect vulnerable minorities from forced conversions and safeguard their rights.

E) The representation of religious minorities in the form of proportional representation in the national and provincial assemblies since 2002 have proved to be counter productive and voiceless for religious minorities but unfortunately has been further devolved in Punjab’s local government system. In the newly promulgated Punjab Local Government Act 2025 reserve seats have been allocated for the representation of minorities, women, labour/ peasant and youth in the lowest tier i.e. Union Council but 9 elected General Councilor will have the decision power to Select and not Elect the representatives on reserve seats- they can chose whoever they want. Therefore, there is an ample fear among the marginalized sections of the society that the ruling elite shall manage to lead the way for thousands of hand-picked people of their own choice in the local government system, which shall promote political marginalization leading to social marginalization, horse-trading, political manoeuvring and dictatorial decision making.  

F) a special attention is required to socially uplift and protect the rights of  weaker segments of the society including women, children, laborers & workers (brick kiln & sanitary workers, factory workers, peasants etc.)- stop violence against women and children and ensure reasonable wages and facilities for the working class.