Danish Kaneria revealed his career was adversely affected by discrimination as a Hindu cricketer in Pakistan. In a Washington, D.C. briefing, he called for U.S. intervention to address the injustices faced by minorities. He shared his experiences with both support and pressure from fellow cricketers, particularly concerning religious conversion. Asra Nomani also highlighted the broader issue of sectarian violence affecting minorities in Pakistan.
Danish Kaneria, the last Hindu cricketer from Pakistan, expressed his grievances regarding the discrimination he faced, which he claims ultimately destroyed his career. Speaking during a Congressional briefing in Washington, D.C., he highlighted the plight of minorities in Pakistan and emphasized the need for U.S. intervention to tackle the discrimination they endure. He indicated, “We have faced discrimination, and today, we raised our voices against it.”
Kaneria recounted his experiences of being denied equal respect and affirmed, “I did not receive the respect and equal value I deserved in Pakistan.” His remarks reflect the broader issues faced by minorities in the country. He further pointed out that his current residence in the U.S. stems from the discrimination he encountered, advocating for increased awareness about their suffering.
Having represented Pakistan in 61 Tests, Kaneria noted that he endured immense pressure to convert to Islam, particularly from player Shahid Afridi, while only receiving support from former captain Inzamam-ul-Haq. He stated, “Inzamam-ul-Haq supported me a lot and was the only captain who did so. Shahid Afridi was the main person telling me to convert.” Kaneria’s narratives reveal the challenges minority players face in the sport.
In a related discussion, former Wall Street Journal journalist Asra Nomani shared her harrowing experiences regarding the treatment of minorities in Pakistan, referencing the 2002 abduction and murder of her friend, journalist Daniel Pearl. She remarked on the pervasive sectarian violence affecting minorities, summarizing, “I saw on the streets of Karachi, Pakistan, the tragic impact of sectarianism.” Nomani’s testimony emphasizes the dangers faced by minority communities in Pakistan.
Danish Kaneria’s testimony underscores the critical issues of discrimination faced by minorities in Pakistan, particularly within the realm of sports. His experiences not only illustrate the struggles of non-Muslims in a predominantly Muslim nation but also call for international awareness and action. Coupled with Asra Nomani’s recollection of sectarian violence, these accounts raise urgent questions about human rights and the treatment of minorities in Pakistan.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
