A peaceful gathering was held at St Patrick’s Cathedral on Monday, under the banner of the Catholic Archdiocese of Karachi in collaboration with the Catholic Commission for Justice & Peace (CCJP), to express solidarity with Maria Shahbaz, who was allegedly abducted and forced to convert.
The event was attended by priests, nuns, members of the civil society, and representatives of various political and religious groups. The participants urged the Federal Constitutional Court chief justice, and the federal and provincial governments to review the Maria Shahbaz case and ensure the protection of all minority girls.
They called for effective measures to prevent forced religious conversions and marriages, and stressed ensuring strict implementation of the existing laws. They also demanded justice for Maria Shahbaz.
The event was presided over by Archbishop Benny Mario Travas, while CCJP Director Rev Fr Shahzad Arshad was also present on the occasion. Addressing the participants, Archbishop Travas expressed deep concern over the recent court decision in the Maria Shahbaz case, and called for unity, prayer and peaceful solidarity.
He said the Karachi Archdiocese stands with all the abducted minor girls from the minority communities who seek justice, dignity and protection of their fundamental human rights. He described the Maria Shahbaz case as a symbol of the broader challenges faced by vulnerable individuals, particularly young girls from religious minorities. He urged people of goodwill to remain peaceful, united and committed to justice, compassion and the rule of law.
“This gathering serves as a platform for prayer, reflection and a collective call to uphold the human dignity of all abducted minor girls from the minority communities,” he said, adding that people must respond with faith, courage and peaceful witness during difficult times.
Fr Arshad urged the authorities to ensure that justice is delivered transparently and fairly, without discrimination, particularly for the most vulnerable. He said that forced conversions and forced marriages are serious violations of fundamental human rights, constitutional guarantees and international obligations, and called for those responsible to be held accountable under the law. He also stressed the need to promote religious harmony, tolerance and respect for human dignity.
He urged the government to take immediate and effective steps to safeguard justice and human dignity, adding that the Church continues to pray for a safe and dignified future for every child in the country.
