“The destruction of Buddhism in Pakistan: A tragic reality”, Bitter Winter, October 13, 2023:

“Buddhism, one of the world’s most ancient religions, once flourished in what is now Pakistan, particularly in the Gandhara region. With its rich heritage of Buddhist art and culture, Pakistan should be a haven for Buddhists and a site of pilgrimage. However, the reality is quite the opposite. Pakistan’s state-sponsored radical elements, the near-zero Buddhist population, and deceptive government activities are contributing to the destruction of Buddhism in the country.

One of the most significant factors contributing to the destruction of Buddhism in Pakistan is the presence and influence of state-sponsored Islamic radical elements. These extremist groups, often backed by elements within the government, have actively targeted religious minorities, including Buddhists. The result has been the exodus of many Buddhists from the region due to violence and persecution.

The rise of radicalism in Pakistan has also led to the destruction of Buddhist heritage sites and artifacts. The Taliban’s infamous blowing up of the ancient Buddhas of Bamiyan in neighbouring Afghanistan sent shockwaves through the Buddhist world. While the destruction of the Buddhas of Bamiyan garnered international attention, similar acts of vandalism have occurred in Pakistan with little global outcry…..”

Read the full article at Bitterwinter.org