Christian rights advocates and civil society groups have strongly criticized the abuse of a 13-year-old Christian girl in Pakistan. The minor, known as Zarnaab, was reportedly working as a domestic worker in Punjab province when she was subjected to torture with household utensils. This incident has drawn condemnation from various groups advocating for Christian rights and civil society.
Farzana Imran, a leader of LEAD Ministries, a non-profit evangelical Christian organization, condemned the harassment and inhumane treatment faced by underage girls like Zarnaab who are hired from Christian families for menial work. Pastor Imran Amanat highlighted the lack of educational opportunities as a driving force behind Christian children being pushed into exploitative labor. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing education for the community’s children to prevent such exploitation.
Sardar Mushtaq Gill, the founder of LEAD Ministries, pointed out that minority women and girls are particularly affected by issues like illiteracy, poverty, and social marginalization. Human rights activists are calling for stricter enforcement of child labor laws, accountability for abusive employers, and targeted social protection for religious minorities. They warn that without significant changes, poverty and discrimination will continue to trap Christian families in cycles of exploitation and fear.
The case has reignited demands for authorities to investigate the abuse, ensure justice for the victim, and take concrete actions to safeguard vulnerable children from similar incidents in the future. Recently, a federal court in Pakistan ordered the police to locate and present a 13-year-old Christian girl who was allegedly kidnapped, converted to Islam, and forcibly married to a Muslim man.
