Hindu TikToker converts to Islam

A young Hindu TikToker and emerging singer has converted to Islam and married to a Muslim friend.

Bhagwanti Bheel, now Saima, Islam, is a resident of the Diplo of Tharparkar district, which is home to a sizeable Hindu popuolation.

The young woman, along with her Muslim friend Saddam Bajeer, reached Samaro's well-known Muslim cleric, Umar Jan Sarhandi, and converted to Islam on Monday.

A member of Bajeer's family told The Express Tribune that Bajeer was already married and has three children from his first Muslim wife. "He helped her make TikTok videos and supported her singing," he said. "The conversion and marriage is a surprise for everyone," he added.

"The TikToker was a widow and has a daughter from her Hindu husband," he added. He also mentioned that the girl's family has distanced themselves from her after the news of her conversion surfaced on social media. But the boy's family has approached the newly wedded couple.

Bajeer informed his family that he was happy with his second wife and would not return to the village, the relative stated.

According to the conversion certificate circulated on social media, the girl is 20 years old and belongs to the Bheel community.

It is pertinent to mention that the Bheel community is considered one of the lower-caste Hindu groups and has very limited access to power corridors in the country.

Several social media activists have criticized the singer's conversion and urged the authorities to ensure the safety of Hindus, especially young girls.

According to a statement issued on social media by the All Pakistan Hindu Panchayat, the pattern of forced conversions often follows a predictable script. "Why is marriage conducted immediately after conversion?" it asked.

This immediate marriage after conversion is a tactic used to prevent the girl from returning to her original faith or seeking legal protection. By quickly conducting the marriage, the perpetrators create a legal cover, making it difficult for families to challenge the conversion.

The statement further emphasized: "These incidents raise serious concerns about the safety and freedom of minority girls, highlighting the urgent need for legal reforms and stronger protections."