Just in time for Christmas.
A 15-year-old Catholic girl from Pakistan, Muskan Salman, was abducted in March 2023 by Arsalan Ali, who forcibly converted her to Islam and married her. Her family was devastated to learn of the abduction and subsequent coercion into making false statements about her conversion and marriage. Despite her claims that she was 19 and had converted willingly, her family filed a kidnapping report against Ali. Muskan’s case gained attention when her forced marriage and conversion were revealed to be unlawful under Pakistani law, which prohibits such actions.
On December 15, Muskan escaped from Ali and sought refuge with her parents. However, Ali quickly began searching for her, even contacting the police. The family turned to Luke Victor, a Christian lawyer based in Karachi, for help. He advised the family to travel to Karachi for safety, though the taxi driver was threatened by Ali during the journey. Despite this, the driver allowed the family to continue, and they eventually reached Karachi, where they were assisted by Victor and his team.
Once in Karachi, Muskan shared her traumatic story with her legal team, revealing the emotional and physical abuse she endured. She also provided a signed statement denying her forced conversion and marriage, claiming she had been coerced into making false statements. This statement was submitted to the police and used in the petition to seek protection from Ali. The legal team also pushed for an age verification to ensure Muskan’s status under Pakistan’s child marriage laws.
Muskan’s escape and return to her family were seen as a miracle, offering hope to other families who have faced similar horrors of forced conversions and abductions. Her case highlighted the struggle many religious minorities face in Pakistan, where forced conversions are a growing issue. The event also served as a reminder of the power of faith, resilience, and legal advocacy in the face of such adversity. The successful reunification of the family brought much-needed hope, particularly as Pakistan ranks among the most difficult places to be a Christian.
Muskan’s return is not only a personal victory for her family but also a beacon of hope for many who fear for the safety of their loved ones in the face of religious persecution. The case has drawn attention to the need for stronger protections for religious minorities in Pakistan, particularly in cases of abduction and forced conversion. It also serves as a testament to the power of faith, resilience, and legal support in bringing about justice and protecting vulnerable individuals.