Pakistan has rejected a resolution adopted by the European Parliament concerning the case of Maria Shahbaz, describing the allegations surrounding the matter as factually inaccurate and based on a misleading presentation of events. Officials and supporters of Pakistan’s position argue that the case has been misrepresented by certain advocacy groups, resulting in an unfair portrayal of the country’s legal and judicial processes.
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According to the official account, Maria Shahbaz left her family home in Faisalabad on April 28, 2020, and later appeared before a district court alongside Muhammad Naqash, stating that she had voluntarily embraced Islam and entered into marriage of her own free will. Following legal proceedings, the court initially directed that she stay at a government shelter while the case was under review.
The matter was subsequently taken to the Lahore High Court, where Maria submitted a statement reaffirming that her conversion and marriage had been voluntary. In August 2020, the court quashed the kidnapping case registered against Muhammad Naqash and allowed Maria to live with her husband, citing her stated wishes and legal findings regarding her age and consent.
Supporters of Pakistan’s position maintain that the courts independently examined the available evidence, including documents relating to Maria’s age, medical assessments, and witness statements before delivering their judgment. They also note that police registered the initial complaint filed by her family and pursued the investigation in accordance with legal procedures.
The European Parliament, however, adopted a resolution on July 9 expressing concern over the case and broader issues relating to the rights of religious minorities in Pakistan. The resolution has renewed debate over Pakistan’s human rights record and its trade relationship with the European Union under the GSP+ framework.
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Pakistani authorities insist the judicial process was conducted in accordance with domestic law and maintain that no subsequent complaint alleging coercion, unlawful confinement, or forced conversion has been filed in the case. The issue is expected to remain part of ongoing discussions between Pakistan and the European Union.