The case of Maria Shahbaz, a Christian girl whose family alleges she was abducted, forcibly converted to Islam and married against her will, has raised serious concerns over child protection and minority rights in Pakistan.
Family Alleges Abduction of 13-Year-Old Girl
Maria Shahbaz’s family alleges that she was abducted in July 2025 by Shehryar Ahmad, a Muslim man reported to be around 30 years old. According to the family, Maria was only 13 at the time. They claim she was taken against her will and kept away from her relatives for months.
Allegations of Forced Conversion and Marriage
The family has alleged that Maria was pressured into converting to Islam and marrying Ahmad. They have also raised concerns about possible sexual abuse and coercion during the period she was allegedly held away from home. These allegations remain contested and should not be treated as established judicial findings.
Court Rules on Custody
On February 3, 2026, Pakistan’s Federal Constitutional Court reportedly ruled that Maria should remain in Ahmad’s custody. The decision relied on her stated position that her conversion and marriage were voluntary.
However, her family disputes that account and questions whether a minor could make such decisions freely under the circumstances described.
Fresh Questions Over the Investigation
The case drew renewed attention after reports in October 2026 said the Lahore High Court had ordered the police investigation to be reopened. Maria’s family has alleged that concerns about her age and the documentation surrounding the marriage were not adequately addressed.
Minority Rights and Child Protection Under Scrutiny
The case has intensified debate over the protection of religious minorities, the rights of underage girls and the handling of alleged forced-conversion cases in Pakistan. Rights advocates have repeatedly called for safeguards to ensure that minors are protected from coercion and that their statements are assessed carefully.
The central issue remains whether Maria’s consent was freely given and whether the allegations raised by her family received a thorough investigation. Further judicial findings and independently verified evidence will be crucial in establishing the facts.