First abduction, then forced marriage... British MPs express concern over conversion of Christian girl in Pakistan

News Topical, Digital Desk : The British Parliamentary Group has expressed deep concern over the forced marriage of a Christian girl in Pakistan. Maria Shahbaz, a Christian girl, was abducted and forced into marriage. The girl's father has stated that Maria was a minor at the time of the marriage and was forcibly converted. Despite this, Pakistan's Federal Constitutional Court declared Maria Shahbaz's marriage valid.

According to Christian Today report, for years, girls from Christian and Hindu communities in Pakistan have been targeted for rape, conversion by elderly Muslims and Hindu and Christian girls have been forced into marriage.

'Courts support kidnappers'

The All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Pakistani Minorities said in a statement that there has been a widespread pattern of allegations related to the abduction, conversion, and marriage of girls from religious minority communities, particularly Christian and Hindu communities. Minorities often face legal and social barriers to accessing justice in such cases, while courts often support the abductors.

Pakistan urged to implement laws

APPG Co-Chair Lord Alton said, "The protection of children and the protection of religious minorities are recognized fundamental principles. The highest levels of scrutiny, transparency, and sensitivity are essential to ensure that justice is done and that justice is seen to be done in cases involving allegations of forced marriage and conversion."

The British group urged the Pakistani government to investigate allegations of forced marriage, especially those involving minors, and enforce laws.

The parliamentary group also called for international cooperation to protect religious minorities in Pakistan, Christian Today reported.

Last week, the APPG also expressed concern over reports that Islamabad's Capital Development Authority (CDA) was preparing a demolition drive targeting settlements, mainly inhabited by low-income Christian families.

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