Lahore: A high court in Pakistan recently intervened to protect Sarabjeet Kaur, an Indian Sikh woman who converted to Islam and married a local man, Nasir Hussain. The couple faced harassment from police after their marriage, which occurred shortly after Kaur arrived in Pakistan to celebrate Guru Nanak’s birthday with a group of Sikh pilgrims.
Kaur, age 48, joined about 2,000 pilgrims who crossed the Wagah border early this month. While her companions returned to India on November 13, Kaur remained behind after marrying Hussain just a day after her arrival on November 4.
The police allegedly raided their home in Sheikhupura and pressured the couple to end their marriage. Both Kaur and Hussain appealed to the Lahore High Court, which ordered law enforcement to cease their harassment. Kaur expressed concern about the undue pressure she and her husband faced, highlighting a particular police officer’s aggressive tactics.
In a social media video, Kaur shared that she met Hussain nine years ago on Facebook and had traveled to Pakistan specifically for the marriage. She identified herself by her Muslim name, Noor, and stated that she wanted to build a new life with Hussain, noting that she is a divorcee with two sons.
This situation underscores a broader issue regarding the rights of individuals navigating cultural and religious differences in Pakistan. Recent statistics reveal that incidents of harassment based on such marriages have increased, prompting calls for legal protections. Human Rights Watch reported a notable rise in cases involving forced conversions and marriages, illustrating the complexities and challenges individuals face in similar situations.
As Kaur seeks to secure her visa and potential Pakistani citizenship through the Indian mission, the societal reaction remains mixed. Many on social media have voiced support for her decision, while others express concerns about the implications for religious freedom in the region.
In navigating this personal journey, Kaur’s experience sheds light on the intersection of love, faith, and legal rights in a multicultural landscape.
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INDIAN SIKH WOMAN HARASSED, PAKISTAN COURT, PAK COURT ORDERS POLICE TO STOP HARASSING INDIAN SIKH WOMAN WHO MARRIED LOCAL MUSLIM
