Is Religious Harassment of a Christian Student in Pakistan Being Ignored?
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Synopsis
A fourth-grade Christian student in Punjab, Pakistan, faces alarming religious harassment at school. Activists demand justice and accountability for the threats against her and all minority students. This case sheds light on the urgent need for protecting religious freedoms in education. Will the authorities take action?
Key Takeaways
- Maryam Hidayat faces ongoing religious harassment in school.
- Authorities have not taken action despite multiple complaints.
- Minority students are increasingly vulnerable to discrimination.
- The situation demands urgent attention from the Punjab Education Department.
- Collective efforts are needed to raise awareness about minority rights.
Islamabad, Sep 17 (NationPress) A prominent minority rights organization has brought to light a concerning incident in Punjab, Pakistan. A fourth-grade Christian student, Maryam Hidayat, has endured persistent religious harassment from her peers and is under severe pressure to convert to Islam.
The Voice of Pakistan Minority (VOPM) reported that this harassment took place at a Government Elementary School located in Kalar Abadi, within the city of Gujranwala.
“This shocking case has ignited widespread outrage and condemnation from various human rights organizations, activists, and citizens advocating for the rights of religious minorities. It highlights a grim reality where children from minority backgrounds are not only susceptible to discrimination but also victims of systemic negligence,” the rights organization emphasized.
Maryam’s family has claimed that she has faced repeated coercion and verbal abuse due to her Christian faith.
Despite multiple complaints lodged with the school administration, the VOPM stated that no protective measures have been implemented to shield Maryam from this harassment. Instead, her family has reported threats of expulsion if they persist in voicing their concerns regarding this injustice.
“This incident highlights a broader, more entrenched issue of religious intolerance within Pakistan's educational institutions. Minority students, particularly girls, are increasingly subjected to discrimination and harassment, making it imperative to protect their rights. They deserve equal protections as their peers — the right to attend school free from fear of marginalization or coercion to change their beliefs,” the rights organization asserted.
“The time for action is now. This situation demands a transparent inquiry from the Punjab Education Department, the Ministry of Human Rights, and all relevant authorities to ensure justice is served,” it added.
Expressing concern, the VOPM urged accountability for those perpetrating this religious harassment and called for urgent measures to safeguard minority students within Pakistan's education system.
The rights body stressed that this case necessitates a collective effort from civil society, media, and international human rights organizations to raise awareness about the escalating threats to religious freedom and the safety of minority communities in Pakistan.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the gravity of religious harassment faced by minority students like Maryam Hidayat. This incident not only highlights systemic issues in educational institutions but also calls for immediate action from authorities to ensure that all children can attend school without fear of discrimination.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Maryam Hidayat?
Maryam Hidayat, a fourth-grade Christian student in Punjab, has faced repeated religious harassment from her peers and pressure to convert to Islam.
What has the Voice of Pakistan Minority done?
The Voice of Pakistan Minority has condemned the harassment faced by Maryam and called for accountability from the school administration and authorities.
What actions have been taken to protect Maryam?
Despite complaints, no protective measures have been implemented by the school, and Maryam's family faces threats of expulsion for raising their concerns.
Why is this incident significant?
This incident underscores the broader issue of religious intolerance in Pakistan's schools and the urgent need to protect minority students.
What can be done to improve the situation?
Immediate action is required from educational authorities to investigate the incident and implement protective measures for minority students.
