Danish Kaneria, the last Hindu cricketer for Pakistan, disclosed discrimination in his career that culminated in its destruction. Speaking in Washington, he called for US intervention on minority rights issues. His experiences reflect wider concerns about the treatment of minorities in Pakistan, reiterated by journalist Asra Nomani during the briefing.
Danish Kaneria, the last Hindu cricketer for Pakistan, spoke about the discrimination he faced during his career, stating that it led to its destruction. Speaking at a Congressional briefing in Washington, he emphasized the need for international intervention regarding the treatment of minorities in Pakistan. Kaneria shared how he and others gathered to discuss their experiences of discrimination, raising awareness about these issues.
He expressed, “I, too, have faced a lot of discrimination, and my career was destroyed. I did not receive the respect and equal value I deserved in Pakistan.” Kaneria revealed he made his journey to the United States to highlight these injustices, seeking US action against the plight of minorities in Pakistan.
Kaneria, who has played 61 Tests for Pakistan, mentioned his unique position as the second Hindu cricketer in the team’s history. He alleged that Shahid Afridi had pressured him to convert to Islam while describing his support from Inzamam-ul-Haq and Shoaib Akhtar. He noted, “Inzamam-ul-Haq supported me a lot and was the only captain who did so.”
Asra Nomani, a former journalist, also addressed the briefing, recalling the severe consequences of sectarianism in Pakistan. She cited the 2002 abduction and murder of her colleague Daniel Pearl, emphasizing how minorities lack fundamental rights in the country. Nomani stated, “I saw on the streets of Karachi, Pakistan, the tragic impact of sectarianism that is claiming too many minorities.”
Danish Kaneria’s testimony highlights the significant challenges faced by minorities in Pakistan, showcasing personal experiences of discrimination that have hindered his cricket career. His call for intervention in the plight of minorities aims to raise awareness and address systemic issues within Pakistani society. Both he and Asra Nomani’s accounts aim to draw attention to the need for equality and respect for all citizens in Pakistan, particularly for its minority communities.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
