KARACHI:
Continuous news about the heinous acts of abduction of Hindu and Christian girls in Sindh and parts of South Punjab is extremely upsetting. In majority of these cases, victims are lower caste underage girls, hailing from low-income families. These untoward incidents expose the vulnerability of minorities and failure of law enforcement authorities to protect them.
Due to fear and insecurities aligned with so many social constraints, many parents and family members have been unable to report cases to the police. Therefore, the reported number of forced conversions is far lesser than what the actual numbers may be. This is happening under the patronage of religious extremists who have a myopic and unrealistic understanding of Islam. Such people are not only spreading hatred but are also damaging the religious diversity and the social fabric of Sindh province. Increasing incidents of kidnapping, rape and forced conversion indicate that our society is slowly moving towards moral degradation. The reality is that forced conversion is not only against the spirit of Islam, but it is also unconstitutional and a serious human rights violation.
In a true democratic state, protection and safety of minorities lies with state. Considering the current situation of minorities in the country, the state must realise that it is high time to take a firm stand in order to eliminate intolerance and hatred once and for all. Our legislators need to unanimously pass a bill against forced conversions without any fear and pressure so that all citizens are protected regardless of differences.
Shahjahan Memon & Aisha Memon
Qamber
Published in The Express Tribune, January 22nd, 2021.
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