03/05/2026
I am Maqbool Masih Khokhar — a responsible Pakistani citizen.
My daughter is my responsibility — a question, a pain, a demand.
Is the blood of only one nation included in the foundations of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan? Or is every person who dreamed for this country, sacrificed, and strengthened this state with their vote, also a part of building this land?
I am a Christian Pakistani. This is my country. This is the same Pakistan in whose establishment my ancestors' blood was also included, those who made this land their home and strengthened its foundations.
So then, why does this question arise: Are minorities safe in Pakistan?
This question itself points to a painful reality.
Recently, the rulings of the Federal Constitutional Court and social attitudes have sparked a new debate—sensitive issues like child marriages and forced religious conversion have created severe fear and anxiety in minority communities, especially the Christian community.
When a country’s constitution grants an 18-year-old the right to vote and elect their representatives, then why is a minor girl forced to make the biggest decisions of her life against her will?
This is not just a legal issue—this is a question of humanity. This is a question of justice. This is a question of Pakistan’s future.
I ask: Is my daughter safe? If not, then why has the slogan "My daughter, my responsibility" just become words?
It is the responsibility of the state to provide equal protection to every citizen—no matter what religion, language, or background they belong to. The Constitution of Pakistan guarantees minorities full religious freedom and protection, but why do ground realities appear to be the opposite?
Wrong actions by a few elements affect the entire country’s reputation. Do we want the world to see Pakistan as a country where minorities live in fear? Certainly not.
Pakistan is not just of the majority—this is all of ours. Every person living here is an equal citizen, an equal Pakistani.
We need laws, decisions, and practical measures that:
Protect minor girls from all forms of exploitation
Take a clear and strong stance against forced religious conversion
Ensure the protection of minorities
And above all, deliver justice to every doorstep
As a responsible Pakistani citizen, I raise this question: Is being born in a Christian household my sin? If not, then why do my daughter and I not receive full protection?
This voice is not just mine—it is the voice of every Pakistani who wants justice, equality, and peace.
Let us all together build a Pakistan where no one has to ask this question: "Am I safe?"
