Sindh Minister for Law, Religious Affairs, and Human Rights Muhammad Omer Soomro has strongly advocated for the inclusion of minorities, women, and marginalized communities in District Peace Committees (DPCs).
The event, “Provincial Dialogue on District Peace Committees’ Future,” was organized by Legal Aid Society (LAS), a Karachi-based NGO, in collaboration with the Sindh Human Rights Commission (SHRC) and the Auqaf, Religious Affairs, Zakat & Ushr Department (ARAZUD). The program brought together a wide range of officials, activists, and NGOs. During his speech, the Law Minister commended the research conducted by the LAS which has produced a comprehensive working paper containing actionable recommendations for the enhancement and formalization of District Peace Committees throughout Sindh. Furthermore, he emphasized that the mandate of DPCs extends beyond their traditional role of overseeing Muslim religious festivals. Instead, he eloquently conveyed the foundational Islamic principles of peace and harmonious coexistence, especially pertinent in the face of current challenges to peace.
Omer Soomro urged the creation of clear and thorough Terms of Reference (TORs) for DPCs, vowing that his ministry would formalize and enforce them. This commitment signals a significant advancement for Sindh, emphasizing the importance of diverse voices for a united, cooperative, and peaceful environment.
In light of rising violence against minorities, and strained inter-communal relations in Sindh, the SHRC and LAS have consistently called for the activation of District Peace Committees to promote harmony. LAS recently completed a report assessing DPCs in Sindh, focusing on their functionality, coordination, and effectiveness, offering insights for policymakers and stakeholders to enhance peace efforts.
DPCs were introduced in Pakistan, drawing inspiration from effective international and national district-level models that promote community involvement in conflict resolution and the preservation of communal harmony. These committees operate under the authority of Deputy Commissioners (DCs) within each district. Comprising individuals designated and nominated by the respective DC, their primary mission, as stated in their notification, is to uphold religious harmony and foster peace within their districts. These DPCs play a vital role in facilitating cooperation among community members to address disputes and ensure the overall well-being of their communities.
