A peaceful protest rally was organized in Amrit Nagar, Mian Channu, under the leadership of The Salvation Army Church, highlighting growing concerns over forced conversions and marriages of minor girls from minority communities in Pakistan.
The protest gained momentum following the recent constitutional court decision in the Maria Shahbaz case, which has sparked serious concerns among the Christian community.
Mass Participation Reflects Deep Concern
The rally witnessed participation from a large number of men, women, elderly individuals, and children. The gathering reflected a unified voice of the minority community against increasing incidents of abduction and forced religious conversion.
Participants carried banners and placards with strong messages such as:
Protect minor girls
End forced conversions
Ensure justice for victims
Speakers Raise Strong Concerns
Key speakers included:
Major Ilyas Masih (Corps Officer)
Basharat Shahzad Gill
Advocate A.D. Sahil Munir (High Court)
They emphasized that forced conversions and marriages of minor girls are serious violations of human rights, Pakistan’s Constitution, and international legal commitments.
Concerns Over Maria Shahbaz Case
Speakers expressed deep reservations regarding the recent verdict in the Maria Shahbaz case. According to them, such decisions may encourage harmful trends in society and weaken the protection of vulnerable communities.
They urged authorities to take immediate notice and prevent further injustice.
Call for Strong Legislation
The protest leaders demanded:
Immediate and effective legislation
Clear criminalization of forced conversions and marriages of minor girls
Strict punishment for those involved
They stressed that legal reforms must be accompanied by strict implementation.
Need for Enforcement and Accountability
Speakers highlighted that laws alone are not sufficient unless properly enforced. They called for:
Action against perpetrators without discrimination
Stronger role of law enforcement agencies
Protection and justice for affected families
Prayer for Peace and Harmony
The rally concluded with a special prayer for interfaith harmony, peace, and protection of minority rights in Pakistan.
Participants reaffirmed their commitment to peaceful advocacy and justice.
