ISLAMABAD — The Christian Council Pakistan, led by Chairman and former Federal Minister Senator Kamran Michael, has officially rejected the recent decision by the Federal Constitutional Court regarding the Maria Shahbaz case. Speaking at a high-stakes press conference at the National Press Club on Tuesday, Michael described the verdict as a source of "deep anxiety" that leaves religious minorities and young girls vulnerable to systemic exploitation.

Minority Leaders Demand Urgent Legal Reforms

The Council, flanked by prominent religious leaders including Bishop Humphrey Sarfraz Peters and Bishop Arshad Joseph, argued that the court's decision fails to protect the most marginalized. The leaders highlighted that the case—involving the alleged kidnapping, forced conversion, and illegal marriage of a minor—represents a broader failure of the legal system to uphold basic human rights.

Senator Kamran Michael emphasized that if impartial legal institutions appear to act as a party to the matter, the oppressed have nowhere to turn. "This decision has legal, social, political, and religious consequences," Michael stated. "We will not leave our daughters at the mercy of ruthless elements; we will raise our voice on every effective platform, including the streets if necessary."

Key Demands and Future Action Plan

The Christian leadership, supported by legal experts Shahid Langrial Advocate and Waheed Javed Advocate, as well as MNA Naveed Amir Jeeva, outlined a strategic response to the ruling:

• Review Petition: The Council formally announced the filing of a review petition to challenge the court’s current standing.

• Immediate Arrests: A demand for the immediate arrest and punishment of all individuals involved in the illegal marriage of the minor.

• Security Measures: A call for the government to provide immediate, high-level protection to Maria Shahbaz and her family.

• Constitutional Loopholes: An appeal to national political leadership to identify and remove legal loopholes that allow for forced conversions and child marriages.

A Test for the Rule of Law

The leaders concluded by asserting that the Maria Shahbaz case is more than just a legal battle; it is a fundamental test of Pakistan's commitment to equality and the rule of law. The community expressed profound concern that such decisions further depress an already troubled demographic, demanding a transparent and impartial investigation to restore public trust.