The complex case of a young Pakistani Christian girl, allegedly forced into converting to Islam, has taken a significant turn as a court orders her to be placed in a neutral government shelter. This move comes as the court awaits the results of a crucial medical age test, which is expected to clarify her age and influence the case’s outcome.
Sonia Tariq was reported missing in late 2024. Upon her discovery, it was revealed she had married an older Muslim man and converted to Islam. Tariq maintains that her conversion was voluntary and expresses no desire to return to her Christian family.
A critical aspect of the case revolves around the dispute concerning Tariq’s age. While Tariq claims to be 20 years old, her family insists she is only 15, a claim supported by official documentation.
Given the potential unreliability of official records in Pakistan, the court has mandated medical tests to ascertain Tariq’s true age. Meanwhile, the Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) has decided to place Tariq in a government shelter.
The decision has been positively received by The Centre for Legal Aid, Assistance and Settlement (CLAAS-UK), which is collaborating with Tariq’s Christian parents in their legal battle.
Nasir Saeed, Director of CLAAS-UK, commented, “We are encouraged by the Federal Constitutional Court’s decision to place Sonia in a safe and neutral environment and to order an independent medical assessment of her age. This reflects a serious and balanced approach by the bench in a highly sensitive case.”
He added, “We have been pursuing this case since 2024 in close partnership with The Edge Foundation in Pakistan. For nearly two years, the family has been seeking justice under extremely difficult circumstances. Today’s development gives renewed hope – not only to this family, but to many others facing similar situations.”
The court has scheduled a further hearing for 20 May.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
