Kotri: Hindu Youth Assaulted Over Dining at Local Dhaba
A troubling incident of communal and caste-based discrimination has come to light in Kotri, Sindh, where a young man from the Hindu Bagri community was brutally attacked for eating at a local dhaba, according to The Express Tribune.
The victim, identified as Dolat Bagri, had visited a roadside eatery for lunch when the hotel owner and several others objected to his presence. Reports say the group tied Dolat’s hands and feet, beat him severely, and stole Rs 60,000 from his pockets. Despite his pleas for mercy, the assailants continued the assault, reportedly punishing him for “daring to eat there.” A video of the attack later went viral on social media, sparking outrage and demands for justice.
Following the backlash, Kotri police registered a case based on Dolat’s complaint against seven individuals—Fayyaz Ali, Arshad Ali, Moeen Ali, Shafi Muhammad, Niaz, Dar Muhammad, and Ikram—along with the hotel owner. However, no arrests have been made yet, raising concerns about the authorities’ inaction and the continued persecution of minorities in Sindh.
Prior to filing the case, a petition had been submitted in the District and Sessions Court of Jamshoro against the SSP and SHO for their failure to act. Only after the petition did the police take action and lodge the FIR.
The incident underscores the systemic discrimination and violence faced by Hindu minorities in Pakistan, particularly marginalized communities such as the Bagris, who frequently endure prejudice and social exclusion.
Condemning Pakistan’s negligence, Dr. Sharma described the situation as a form of “religious apartheid,” violating international human rights treaties. He urged the global community not to remain silent, calling on the UNHRC to ensure accountability and implement measures to protect persecuted minorities.
