A human rights activist from Pakistan’s Sindh province has reportedly received death threats after publicly exposing an alleged network involved in the forced conversion of minority girls, once again drawing attention to the deep-rooted persecution of religious minorities in the country.

The activist, known for documenting cases of abduction, forced religious conversion and coerced marriages of Hindu and Christian girls, has claimed that powerful clerics, local gangs and influential political patrons are working together to silence voices that challenge the practice. According to the activist, the threats intensified after details of specific cases, including names of perpetrators and locations of religious seminaries allegedly involved, were made public.

Forced conversions have long been a sensitive and controversial issue in Sindh, home to the majority of Pakistan’s Hindu population. Minority rights groups estimate that hundreds of underage girls are abducted every year, forcibly converted to Islam and married off, often to much older men. Families seeking justice frequently allege collusion between police, local courts and religious groups, resulting in little to no legal protection for victims.

The activist has accused Pakistani authorities of deliberate inaction, claiming that law enforcement agencies routinely refuse to register cases or intimidate families into withdrawing complaints. In several instances, courts have accepted statements from minor girls recorded under pressure, declaring conversions “voluntary” despite clear signs of coercion and intimidation.

Rights organisations say the threats against the Sindh activist reflect a broader pattern of repression against those who expose human rights abuses in Pakistan. Journalists, lawyers and activists working on minority rights issues have repeatedly faced harassment, surveillance and violence, while extremist groups operate with near impunity.

Critics argue that Pakistan’s leadership continues to project an image of religious tolerance internationally while failing to address systematic abuses at home. Despite repeated promises of reform and protection for minorities, no effective legislation has been implemented to criminalise forced conversions or hold perpetrators accountable.

The targeting of the Sindh activist has renewed calls for international scrutiny and pressure on Islamabad to protect human rights defenders and ensure justice for minority communities. Observers warn that unless meaningful action is taken, the cycle of intimidation, silence and abuse will continue, further eroding Pakistan’s already fragile human rights record. 

This image is taken from India Today.