Pakistan: Hindu candidate Saveera Parkash vows to build better ties with India ahead of general elections

In the lead-up to the highly anticipated general elections in Pakistan on February 8, Dr Saveera Parkash, a 25-year-old Hindu candidate contesting on a Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) ticket from the Buner constituency, has made history as the first Hindu to participate in the elections in the conservative province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Her nomination holds significance as it breaks new ground in the region.

Dr. Parkash, a doctor by profession, emphasized her commitment to addressing the challenges Hindus face in Pakistan and beyond. Notably, she vowed to work towards fostering better relations with India if elected. Her family has a longstanding affiliation with the PPP, led by Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.

Speaking to Geo News, Dr Parkash expressed her determination to contribute to diplomatic bridges between Islamabad and New Delhi. She highlighted that her nomination and PPP chairman Bilawal's visit to India are positive developments for bilateral relations. She identified herself as a patriotic Hindu and received the title of 'daughter of Buner,' boosting her morale.

Dr Parkash pledged to prioritize education, healthcare, and environmental issues if elected as a provincial assembly member. She also committed to advancing women's rights in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, focusing on creating a safe environment and advocating for women's rights.

Dr. Saveera Parkash currently serves as the general secretary of the PPP women's wing in Buner. Her father, Dr. Om Parkash, a retired doctor and dedicated PPP member, has been associated with the party for over 35 years. Dr. Saveera completed her MBBS from the Abbottabad International Medical College in 2022.

The PPP's decision to field Dr. Parkash as a candidate in a Muslim-dominated region has been recognized as a revolutionary step, as social media influencers and party leaders commend the choice. The general elections in Pakistan are witnessing increased participation by women, with over 11% of the total candidates being women.

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) reported that 471 women, including Maryam Nawaz Sharif, filed nomination papers to contest elections on general seats of the National Assembly. After fresh delimitation, the National Assembly will have 336 seats, including 266 general seats, 60 seats reserved for women, and 10 for non-Muslims.

पाकिस्तान: हिंदू उम्मीदवार सवीरा प्रकाश ने आम चुनाव से पहले भारत के साथ बेहतर संबंध बनाने का वादा किया।