NAWABSHAH/LARKANA: The Sindh Human Rights Commission (SHRC), civil society groups and the Hindu Panchayat Larkana have expressed grave concern over the alleged forced religious conversion of three minor girls and one teenage boy from a Hindu family in Shahdadpur, calling for protective and legal measures to safeguard the affected minors and their family.

According to a press release, the SHRC convened a high-level meeting on Saturday at the office of the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Sanghar to inquire into reports of the alleged forced conversions.

The SSP briefed the commission on the evolving situation and the actions taken by law enforcement agencies thus far. Officials assured the SHRC of their full cooperation in ensuring the protection and rights of the affected individuals.

Earlier in the day, the SHRC chairperson paid an urgent visit to Shahdadpur to personally inquire into the alleged case of conversion. He met the affected minors and their parents to understand the circumstances of the incident and to hear the children’s perspectives. He also sought to clarify facts amid widespread speculation in the media.

Following the meeting with the family, Mr Detho held a separate session with DSP Shahdadpur to review the timeline of events and assess the legal framework applied to the case.

In a statement, the SHRC reaffirmed its commitment to upholding human rights, protecting vulnerable communities and ensuring justice through transparent inquiry and due legal process.

Meanwhile, the Pooja Hindu Panchayat Larkana on Saturday held a meeting at Dharamshala, chaired by Harish Lal, to discuss the matter.

The gathering strongly condemned the alleged forced conversion of the Hindu minors and warned that if they were not returned to their families and justice not served, the Hindu Panchayat across Sindh would launch widespread protests.

Speaking at the meeting, Mr Lal said the issue of forced conversions of Hindu girls and children was part of a deliberate conspiracy. He alleged that Sindhi Hindus were being systematically harassed and humiliated, and such incidents had been taking place for some time, causing deep concern among the Hindu community of Sindh.

“No one has the right to lure underage girls and children of any religion into converting,” he said.

Published in Dawn, June 22nd, 2025