8/6/2024 Pakistan (International Christian Concern) — On July 23, President Asif Ali Zardari signed an amendment to the Christian Marriage Act of 1872, raising the minimum age for Christian boys and girls intending to marry to 18. The amendment addresses longstanding concerns raised by Christian activists and social society leaders.
The signing ceremony occurred at the Aiwan-e-Sadr and was attended by renowned Christian church leaders and activists. Christians across Pakistan are praising the government for this significant action, hoping it will help reduce the number of forced conversions in the country.
However, many in the community believe this step will not adequately address the longstanding issue of forced conversions. In most cases, perpetrators abduct minor girls and present fake age certificates in court to prevent prosecution. Ironically, not a single person involved in forced conversion cases has been brought to justice so far. While one part of the community hails this judgment, the other part believes that the government must take stronger actions to prevent forced conversions and protect minorities.
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