Forced Conversion – Christian Minor’s Alleged Abduction Sparks Rights OutcryChristian Minor’s Alleged Abduction Sparks Rights Outcry
Forced Conversion – A rights advocacy group has raised alarm over the reported abduction and alleged forced conversion of a 13-year-old Christian girl from Punjab, bringing renewed attention to concerns about the safety of minority children in Pakistan.
Alleged Abduction Reported in Sahiwal District
Human Rights Focus Pakistan (HRFP) has voiced serious concern regarding the case of Sataish Maryam, a minor from Tehsil Chichawatni in District Sahiwal. According to a First Information Report filed on January 11, 2026, under Section 365-B of the Pakistan Penal Code, the girl was allegedly taken during the night between January 10 and 11.
Her father, Basharat Masih, who works as a daily wage labourer, told the organisation that residents of the area saw a man identified as Ali Haider Gulzar along with several others placing the girl in a vehicle and driving away. Police registered the complaint and began legal proceedings, but the family maintains that progress in recovering their daughter has been limited.
Family Describes Circumstances at Home
At the time of the incident, Sataish’s mother, Shahnaz Bibi, was recovering from a fractured heel and was unable to move freely. The family said the teenager had briefly stepped outside to carry out household tasks when she was allegedly abducted.
Relatives claim they later received information suggesting the girl had been located in Karachi. However, they allege that no effective steps were taken by authorities to secure her return. Law enforcement officials have not publicly detailed the status of the investigation.
Second FIR Filed Over Alleged Threats
Tensions escalated days later when a second police report was lodged on January 22, 2026. According to the complaint, several individuals entered the family’s home and issued threats in connection with their pursuit of the abduction case.
Authorities reportedly registered charges under Sections 452, 506, 148, and 149 of the Pakistan Penal Code, which relate to house trespass, criminal intimidation, and unlawful assembly. The family says the alleged intimidation has left them fearing for their safety.
Court Proceedings and Conversion Claim
The case took another turn when the accused reportedly claimed that the minor had embraced Islam and entered into marriage. The girl’s parents dispute the validity of those claims, arguing that as a 13-year-old she cannot legally consent to marriage or religious conversion.
Court proceedings were held before Additional Sessions Judge Noor Muhammad Dothar in Chichawatni on January 28, 2026. According to the family, the hearing was conducted without their knowledge and they were not permitted to meet their daughter. The court’s decision reportedly favoured the alleged abductor.
Legal experts note that questions surrounding the age of consent, child marriage laws, and religious conversion of minors remain sensitive issues within Pakistan’s legal framework.
Rights Group Calls for Transparent Review
Speaking at a press interaction on February 3, 2026, HRFP President Naveed Walter expressed concern over what he described as gaps in child protection and due process. He emphasised the need for an impartial review of the case and safeguards to ensure the welfare of the minor involved.
The organisation has also highlighted the reported threats faced by the family and called for protective measures to prevent further harassment. HRFP urged federal and provincial authorities, along with child protection agencies and minority rights bodies, to examine the matter closely.
In a statement, the group said it stands in solidarity with Sataish Maryam and her family and will continue to provide legal and humanitarian support as the case proceeds through lawful channels.
Broader Concerns Over Minority Rights
Human rights advocates have long raised concerns about cases involving alleged forced conversion and child marriage among minority communities. While official data on such incidents varies, advocacy groups argue that stronger enforcement of existing laws and greater transparency in judicial proceedings are essential to building trust.
HRFP, a non-governmental organisation focused on promoting human rights and access to justice across Pakistan, has called for constitutional protections and child welfare laws to be fully implemented in this case.
As the legal process continues, the family says they remain hopeful for a fair hearing and the safe return of their daughter.