Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Geneva (Fides Service) - Farah Hatim’s case, the Catholic girl kidnapped, forced into marriage and converted to Islam in Rahim Yar Khan (in Punjab) is not closed: some non-governmental Organizations in Pakistan and outside the country intend to officially address this case to the United Nations. "Franciscans International" (FI), NGOs accredited to the UN, expression of the Franciscan world, in recent days sent an appeal to Heiner Bielefeldt, UN Special Observer for religious freedom, pointing out Farah Hatim’s case. The girl, after an appeal to the High Court of Punjab, had declared her intention to remain with her new Muslim family (see Fides 20/7/2011). But, according to her family of origin, her decision was "forced and conditioned": this is why an urgent investigation and intervention on behalf of the United Nations is required. Welcoming the request of the family and several local sources in Pakistan, FI asks the UN Council for Human Rights and the international community to put pressure on the Pakistani government to take all necessary measures "to ensure Farah’s personal safety and liberty". That is securing her in a shelter where she can physically and mentally recover from the abduction and physical and psychological stress, and "express her free will again".
The NGO asks to prosecute people responsible for kidnapping, and that a serious investigation is done on the Pakistani judicial system, to ensure the independence of the courts. FI expresses deep concern with regards to the phenomenon of kidnapping Christian girls to be converted to Islam, according to local sources of Fides, at least 700 cases are recorded a year. The Franciscans are also launching an appeal against the discrimination and marginalization of religious minorities, especially Christians in Pakistan. In the light of this, the UN Special Rapporteur on freedom of Religion or Belief is asked to carry out an official mission in pakistan.
Meanwhile, local sources of Fides inform that Farah’s mother and brother have received death threats by Khalid Shaheen, the N-Muslim Legfa politician involved as a mediator (and according to some as an organizer) of Farah’s kidnapping. The politician, has been rocked by the scandal concerning Farah’s case, had resigned as president of the League in Rahim Yar Khan,but a few days ago resumed his post. Khalid Shaheen ordered Farah’s family to give up fighting, threatening the girl's brother to make him spend the rest of his life in prison with false charges. Farah’s family, note sources of Fides, is saddened and shocked by the outcome of the story, but will not give up. Fides is closely following Farah Hatim’s case and also the recent case concerning Arifa Alfed, kidnapped by a Muslim, then escaped, and whose life now is danger in Quetta (see Fides 18/8/2011). (PA) (Agenzia Fides 22/08/2011)
