#HinduPACT #CHINGARI #Human Rights #Pakistan #Sindh

Urgent Action Needed to Protect Hindu Girls in Pakistan

HinduPACT, a pivotal advocacy organization for the rights of Hindus around the globe, has raised alarms regarding a horrifying trend occurring in Pakistan's Sindh province. Recently, reports surfaced involving the abduction and forced conversion of Hindu girls, which is becoming increasingly frequent in the region. The organization is calling on global leaders and human rights organizations to take definitive action in safeguarding these vulnerable communities.

Among the most distressing cases highlighted by HinduPACT is that of a 15-year-old girl who was forcibly converted to Islam and married off to a man nearly three times her age. Similarly, a 10-year-old girl was abducted from her home and subjected to the same fate. Tragically, the brutal murder of another 15-year-old Hindu girl, Karitika, who was raped and disposed of improperly, underscores the perilous circumstances these communities face. These incidents are not isolated; they reflect a systemic issue where minority religious groups are targeted for exploitation.

HinduPACT's campaign initiative, known as CHINGARI (Coalition for Hindu Girls Abducted and their Rights Initiative), condemns these barbaric practices and calls for worldwide accountability toward Pakistan for its violations against human rights. Deepti Mahajan, the Convenor of the CHINGARI project, stated, "The ongoing plight of minor Hindu girls in Pakistan demands immediate attention. Their childhood is brutally stripped away, and they endure profound trauma under a system that seemingly facilitates their abuse. We are committed to amplifying their voices and advocating for a concerted international response to protect these minorities."

The situation is dire: approximately 1,000 Hindu girls fall victim each year to abduction and forced conversion in Sindh and other regions of Pakistan. Rakhi Israni, Legal Counsel for HinduPACT, has voiced her concerns about the alarming frequency of these abuses. "Each year, this horrendous trend continues under the apathetic gaze of authorities. The Pakistani government must be held responsible for these atrocities, which blatantly disregard fundamental human rights and international laws. The United Nations, Human Rights Watch, and Amnesty International must act decisively to advocate for these vulnerable girls and the systemic issues they face."

HinduPACT, in its call to action, emphasizes a series of demands aimed at protecting these minority communities:

• - Strengthening laws in Pakistan to prevent forced conversions and abductions.
• - Ensuring the safety of religious minorities, especially women and girls.
• - Holding the Pakistani government accountable under international human rights frameworks.

The CHINGARI initiative aims to raise awareness of the atrocities faced by young Hindu girls in Pakistan, shedding light on their struggles. It operates under the auspices of HinduPACT, part of the World Hindu Council of America (VHPA), focusing on advocacy and policy for issues affecting Hindu communities internationally. As these heinous acts continue to unfold, it is imperative that the international community recognizes the urgency of the situation and acts to protect those who cannot defend themselves.

Conclusion

In a world increasingly aware of human rights and minority protections, there is an urgent need for a unified front against abhorrent practices affecting vulnerable populations. HinduPACT's commitment to advocating for the rights of Hindu girls targeted in Pakistan is commendable, and it highlights the urgent call for global action. Such support not only raises awareness but also presents a fundamental responsibility to uphold the values of human dignity and rights in a society where these principles are under continuous threat.

Now, more than ever, the world must stand in solidarity with these girls and their families, demanding justice and significant change.