Discrimination against minority groups is the single most important barrier to their full human development in society. In his latest policy address, the chief executive said the Home Affairs Bureau would form a special team to tackle issues related to the social integration of minority groups in Hong Kong. He said the team would strengthen inter-departmental co-operation to give better social support to these groups.
But issues concerning ethnic minority groups in Hong Kong go beyond the bureau's ambit; they should fall within the scope of the Equal Opportunities Commission. Many of them are the 'forgotten citizens', who are being neglected and discriminated against in everyday life, and in education and employment.
The issue of minority groups is a remnant of our colonial past. During early British colonial rule, a number of minority groups from India and Pakistan were recruited into the police force.
Of course, many local Indians and Pakistanis have become successful businessmen in Hong Kong. But, the majority are manual workers, mostly security guards. Stuck at the lower rungs of the social ladder, they face constant discrimination and violations of basic human rights.
Sadly, this appears to have been the norm for many decades. Many of us seem to have forgotten that these people are also part of our community and that most consider Hong Kong their home.
Under the Basic Law, they are permanent residents of Hong Kong. But, in reality, they do not receive fair and equal treatment and the situation is worsening.
During the colonial era, Indians and Pakistanis could work in the police or for the correctional services. But, since the handover, many have been left out in the cold because the rules now stipulate applicants must read and write Chinese. Most, who only speak Cantonese, would naturally fail this test.