Quetta– In a landmark moment for representation and inclusion, Kashish Chaudhary has made history by becoming the first Hindu woman appointed as an Assistant Commissioner in Pakistan’s Balochistan province. Her achievement, attained at a notably young age after passing the highly competitive Balochistan Public Service Commission (BPSC) examination, is being hailed as a significant step forward for diversity and meritocracy in the region.
Chaudhary hails from Noshki, a remote town in the Chagai district of Balochistan. Her appointment has been celebrated across the province, with many calling it a milestone for both women and religious minorities in Pakistan.
Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti met with Chaudhary and her father, Girdhari Lal, to personally congratulate her. During the meeting, they discussed issues related to women’s representation, the empowerment of minority communities, and the broader development of Balochistan, according to local media reports.
Chief Minister Bugti praised Chaudhary’s accomplishment, calling her “a symbol of pride for not just Balochistan, but the entire nation.” He added, “Kashish has proven that the daughters of Balochistan are second to none. Her success sends a powerful message that talent and perseverance can rise from even the most remote areas of our province.”
In her remarks, Chaudhary expressed gratitude for the opportunity and reaffirmed her commitment to serving the people of Balochistan. “I’m thankful to the Government of Balochistan for placing its trust in a young woman from a minority background. My journey is just beginning, and I intend to be a strong voice for those who are often unheard. I aim to represent youth, women, and marginalized communities,” she said.
“Where you come from doesn’t define how far you can go. It’s your dedication and commitment that matter,” Chaudhary added, encouraging young girls across Pakistan’s rural and underserved areas to pursue their goals without fear or hesitation.
Her appointment comes against the backdrop of ongoing challenges faced by Pakistan’s Hindu community. Despite persistent concerns over the abduction and forced conversion of Hindu girls, the community continues to strive for progress and representation through education and civic engagement. Hindus make up Pakistan’s largest religious minority. While official figures place the population at 7.5 million, community leaders estimate the number to be closer to 9 million.
Balochistan, long plagued by unrest and systemic repression, has seen both Hindus and Muslims affected by alleged state brutality. Baloch activists frequently accuse the federal government of pursuing a “hard-state” approach in the province, citing widespread reports of enforced disappearances, custodial torture, and extrajudicial killings. Many believe these measures are designed to silence dissent and punish families seeking justice.
As voices for Baloch independence grow louder globally, the appointment of a young Hindu woman to a senior administrative role offers a moment of hope — and a reminder of the province’s resilience and diversity amid ongoing struggles. (Source: IANS)
