Faith
Parliamentary Group Raises Alarm Over Christian Girl’s Forced Marriage in Pakistan
Faith Facts
- The case of Maria Shahbaz has prompted grave concern from a British parliamentary group.
- Her father testified that she was a minor coerced into conversion and forced marriage.
- Lord Alton and the APPG for Pakistani Minorities are urging stronger scrutiny and cooperation to protect vulnerable children.
A British parliamentary group has raised grave concerns over the abduction and forced marriage of Maria Shahbaz, a young Christian girl in Pakistan.
Despite her father’s testimony that she was a minor coerced into conversion, the local courts have upheld the union as lawful.
This case highlights a tragic and ongoing pattern where Christian and Hindu girls are targeted by older men for exploitation.
Believers in Pakistan face immense legal barriers as the judicial system frequently sides with abductors over minority families.
Lord Alton, Co-Chair of the APPG, emphasized the necessity of protecting the innocent regardless of the legal system involved.
“The protection of children and the safeguarding of religious minorities are fundamental principles recognised across all legal systems.”
We must stand in prayer and advocacy for our persecuted brothers and sisters who are treated as second-class citizens.
May the Lord bring justice to those who suffer for their faith and protection to the children facing such darkness.