Sardar Saleem Haider Khan
Photo: Wikipedia (CC)
For Christian girls in Pakistan, the threat of kidnapping is a very real danger. Once abducted, these minors are often sexually assaulted, coerced into converting to Islam, and then forcibly married to their kidnappers. Thankfully, recent legislative action is offering new hope for justice and greater protections from such devastating abuse.
In the latest development, the governor for the state of Punjab officially signed the "Child Marriage Restraint Ordinance 2026" into effect on February 11th. This law raises the minimum legal age for marriage to 18 and classifies violations as a non-bailable offences that carry penalties of up to seven years' imprisonment. Those who officiate the marriage of a minor will also face one year in prison.
For advocates who have fought tirelessly to bring about reform, this marks a significant breakthrough in Pakistan's largest state, which is home to nearly half of the country's population. Speaking of the new legislation, Pastor Amanat from LEAD Ministries states, "This is not just a legal reform; it is a moral and social victory for Pakistan's children and a step forward for women's empowerment."
To review previously published reports concerning our Christian sisters in Pakistan, including the report of a young kidnapping victim who was recently reunited with her family, go to our country profile.
- Praise God for this positive legislative action taken by Punjab's political leaders, and for the tireless efforts of those advocating on behalf of our young persecuted sisters in Christ.
- Pray that this legal reform will lead to greater transformation throughout the country, helping to shift societal attitudes towards the protection and rightful treatment of vulnerable girls.
- Amid the remaining challenges, lift up Pakistan's Christians as they seek to demonstrate Christ's love while meaningfully impacting their communities.
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