Religious Minorities in Pakistan: The Evolution and Inclusion of the Sikh Community
Keywords:
Religious Minorities, Sikhism, Sikh-Muslim Relations, Social Inclusion, Religious Identity, Transnational Migration, Plurality in Pakistan.Abstract
Pakistan is a diverse country in terms of culture, ethnicity, language, and religion. In South Asia, Pakistan was established as the home of Muslims, but it also welcomed some Christians, Hindus, Sikhs, Ahmadis, and other religious and racial minorities. This study explores the historical background of Religious Minorities focusing on the establishment of the Sikh community and its development under the Mughal and British eras. The research delves into the inheritance and persistence of Sikhism, emphasizing its influence on religious identity in modern-day Punjab. In addition, it explores the formation of Pakistan and the transnational migration of Sikhs, highlighting the plurality of religions in the country. The current state of the Sikh-Muslim relationship in Pakistan is then the main topic of discussion, along with a thorough analysis of the Sikh community's relationships and social inclusion with the Muslim majority. Using an extensive examination of historical accounts, religious dynamics, and current socio-political environments, this study seeks to enhance our comprehension of the intricate interactions that exist between Sikhs and Muslims in Pakistan in recent years.
