Islamabad, November 6, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
A minority rights organisation has raised concerns over alleged persecution, targeted violence and forced religious conversions in Pakistan, highlighting cases involving underage girls, Christian nurses accused of blasphemy and the lack of adequate safeguards for vulnerable communities.
The Voice of Pakistan Minority (VOPM), referring to cases documented in an account by the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), said incidents reported during the first half of 2026 reflected the human cost of discriminatory laws, weak accountability and inadequate state protection.
The organisation cited the cases of three Christian girls — Maria Shahbaz, Neha Faqir and Sonia Tariq — who were allegedly abducted, forcibly converted and married.
According to the account cited by VOPM, a court upheld the marriage of Maria, described as a 12-year-old girl, to a 30-year-old man accused of kidnapping her. Neha’s family alleged that she was abducted from a sewing centre and forced to convert, while police initially delayed action. Sonia’s family also alleged abduction and forced conversion, with questions reportedly raised in court over conflicting claims about her age.
VOPM urged authorities to investigate such allegations promptly, examine age-related evidence fairly and ensure that the girls can give their accounts without intimidation.
The rights body also highlighted the cases of Christian nurses Navish Arooj and Maryum Lal, who were arrested in April 2021 after a colleague accused them of defiling a sticker bearing an Islamic inscription. They spent five months in detention and later went into hiding, according to the organisation.
A court acquitted both women in February 2026, citing inconsistencies in witness testimony and a lack of credible evidence. VOPM said the acquittal was significant but could not undo years of insecurity.
The organisation also pointed to legislation proposed by Christian lawmaker Falbous Christopher to prevent forced religious conversions, saying stronger legal safeguards must be accompanied by fair enforcement by police, courts and public officials.
“Pakistan’s religious minorities need more than acquittals after prolonged suffering or promises after deadly attacks. They need institutions that prevent abuse, respond promptly and deliver justice,” VOPM said, stressing that protecting minorities was the state’s responsibility.
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