By Muhammad Irfan Siddiqui
Kheal Das Kohistani was born in Karachi (Sindh), Pakistan, in the mid‑1960s. Belonging to a humble Hindu family, his upbringing blended the vibrant traditions of Sindh’s small Hindu communities with the challenges of navigating life within a Muslim-majority society .
- Education & Formative Years
Raised amidst Karachi’s multicultural environment, Kohistani excelled academically at local government schools. Early on, he showed a passion for social welfare—organizing community clean-ups and volunteering at local temples and mosques alike. These experiences sparked his belief in interfaith harmony.
- Political Awakening & Joining PML‑N
Inspired by Pakistan Muslim League–Nawaz’s vision of development and inclusion, Kohistani joined PML‑N in the early 2000s. His grassroots work—particularly in representing Sindh’s minority voices—caught the eye of party leaders, marking the start of his political ascent. - Sacrifices for the Party
For years, Kohistani worked silently but relentlessly—holding local PML‑N meetings from his modest home, filing election paperwork, and campaigning door-to-door. His dedication meant long hours, minimal pay, and personal financial strain. Yet he persisted out of belief in PML‑N’s inclusive future. - Championing the Hindu Community
As a minority, Kohistani worked tirelessly for Hindu rights: lobbying for temple protection, helping families navigate legal hurdles, and raising awareness of minority education access. His sacrifices included speaking out publicly—at risk of backlash—even as far back as community rallies in remote Sindhi towns. - Rising with Nawaz Sharif
Recognized by Nawaz Sharif himself, Kohistani became a symbol of PML‑N’s inclusive aspirations. He accompanied Nawaz during visits to Shikarpur and Hyderabad, engaging with minority families and urging trust in mainstream politics. Through these trips, a mutual respect formed—a Hindu leader aligned with Nawaz’s vision.
According to Asad Usmani, PML‑N Sindh’s spokesperson, “Kheal Das Kohistani is an asset for the party in Sindh and deeply loyal to Nawaz Sharif. In return, Nawaz Sharif holds him in great respect and affection. It was this trust and recognition of his sacrifices that earned him the ministerial role he now leads with dignity.”
- Election & Entry to Parliament
In the 2018 general elections, Kohistani was nominated on a reserved minority seat and entered the National Assembly on August 13, 2018 . His maiden speech called for stronger interfaith dialogue, putting Pakistan’s diverse identity front and centre. - Becoming Minister of State
Amid PML‑N’s coalition government after the 2024 elections, Nawaz Sharif and senior leadership appointed Kohistani as State Minister for Religious Affairs & Interfaith Harmony . This historic role made him the first Hindu minister at this level in Punjab-led government.
- Running the Ministry
Kohistani launched interfaith roadshows across Sindh and Punjab, visiting temples, mosques, and churches on religious festivals. He introduced an annual “Faith and Unity Week”—a new initiative celebrating all religions via school programs and media campaigns. He also reorganized minority representation in provincial religious boards. - Facing Attacks & Showing Courage
In April 2025, while touring Thatta to visit minority families, his convoy was attacked—the protestors pelted stones and rotten produce . Injured but not beaten, Kohistani emerged resolute. Shehbaz and Nawaz Sharif condemned the incident, promising swift justice and showing solidarity. - Future Vision & Road Ahead
Looking ahead, Kohistani plans:
• ✔️ A national High-Level Interfaith Council to advise government on minority affairs.
• ✔️ Legal reforms for property rights of Hindu temples and gurdwaras across all provinces.
• ✔️ A pilot “Minority Youth Scholarship Program” linking students to leading universities.
• ✔️ Collaboration with Nawaz Sharif on international delegations promoting Pakistan as a pluralist democracy.
If delivered, these would mark a transformative legacy—not only symbolic, but tangible for millions of religious minorities.
According to Asad Usmani, PML‑N Sindh’s spokesperson, “Kheal Das Kohistani is an asset for the party in Sindh and deeply loyal to Nawaz Sharif. In return, Nawaz Sharif holds him in great respect and affection. It was this trust and recognition of his sacrifices that earned him the ministerial role he now leads with dignity.”
