A Sikh provincial minister for minority affairs was shot dead in his car by Pakistani Taliban militants on motorbikes in the country’s restive northwest, officials said.

Sardar Soran Singh was shot in the head several times during the attack in the Buner district.

The Pakistani Taliban later claimed responsibility for the killing, saying these activities will “continue until implementation of Islamic system in Pakistan”.

Singh’s murder was widely condemned by lawmakers and activists, while Imran Khan, whose Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party rules Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, urged his government to set up an inquiry commission.

Nasir Saeed, Director CLAAS-UK, said: “The targeted killing of political representatives is unacceptable.

“Our condolences and prayers go out to the family of the deceased. The human rights situation in Pakistan is alarming. Despite, the Judiciary’s directives and the National Plan Action, the religious minorities are still unsafe.

“It is necessary for the government to take necessary action to provide safety and security for religious minorities.”

He also demanded that the government bring the perpetrators to justice.