In a disturbing case of child marriage, police in Kotri, Sindh province, have arrested a maternal uncle for attempting to forcibly marry his 16-year-old niece to his 14-year-old son. The incident came to light after the girl’s sister alerted authorities about the impending marriage, prompting police intervention.
According to a report by Geo News, the police acted swiftly upon receiving the information, taking both the bride and groom into custody. The uncle was apprehended for his illegal actions, which are in violation of Pakistan’s laws against child marriage.
The minor girl revealed in her statement that she was being coerced into the marriage, and further allegations of torture emerged, indicating that she had faced physical abuse for refusing the union. The girl’s family situation is precarious; her mother has passed away, and her father resides in Karachi after remarrying, leaving her in the care of her uncle.
This case highlights a troubling trend in Pakistan, where child marriages are often normalized within certain communities. Many parents view daughters as a burden, feeling compelled to marry them off at a young age, frequently disregarding legal stipulations designed to protect minors.
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the matter, emphasizing the need for greater awareness and enforcement of laws against child marriage in the region. The police have reiterated their commitment to safeguarding the rights of children and ensuring that such illegal practices are addressed with the seriousness they deserve.
