Minority Leader Calls for Investigation into Forced Religious Conversions in Pakistan

In light of increasing outcry regarding a recent judicial ruling, Dr. Paul Jacob Bhatti, leader of the All Pakistan Minorities Alliance, has called for the establishment of an independent parliamentary commission to investigate incidents of forced religious conversions and child marriages involving minority girls. His statement reflects deep concern over what he describes as alarming trends that undermine fundamental rights, such as freedom of belief, child protection, and human dignity.

Dr. Bhatti’s appeal follows nationwide protests sparked by a controversial verdict from Pakistan’s Federal Constitutional Court. The ruling was made by a two-member bench, which included Justice Syed Hasan Azhar Rizvi and Justice Muhammad Karim Khan Agha. The court deemed a 13-year-old girl to have “sufficient maturity,” placing her in the custody of a 30-year-old man identified as her husband. It also recognized her conversion to Islam as valid under Sharia law, a decision that has faced significant backlash from legal experts, civil society organizations, and child rights advocates.

Despite the girl’s parents presenting official documents confirming her minor status, the court dismissed this evidence. The family has been engaged in ongoing legal efforts since the girl’s reported abduction in July 2025. A subsequent investigation ordered by a sessions court reportedly identified the marriage certificate as forged and confirmed that the union has not been officially registered. Nonetheless, the higher court upheld the marriage, a decision that critics argue may embolden those committing such acts and pose further risks to minority communities.

Dr. Bhatti articulated that minors are incapable of giving informed consent concerning matters of religion or marriage from both legal and ethical perspectives. He emphasized the need for rigorous and transparent investigations into such cases to safeguard the rights of affected individuals.

In his statement, he urged the authorities to reassess the court’s ruling, highlighting Pakistan’s constitutional obligations and its commitments under international agreements regarding child rights. He also suggested the creation of an independent review board composed of human rights experts, legal professionals, religious representatives, and specialists in child protection. This body would be responsible for conducting impartial investigations and ensuring the safety and dignity of victims.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share