Shocking Case in Pakistan: Sarbjit Kaur Allegedly Blackmailed, Forced Conversion, and Marriage

ISLAMABAD/LAHORE: The situation surrounding Indian national Sarbjit Kaur’s return from Pakistan remains uncertain. Sarbjit, who traveled to Pakistan in November last year with a group of Sikh pilgrims for the celebration of Prakash Parv, did not return as scheduled. Recent reports indicate that she has been married to a Pakistani man under allegedly coercive circumstances and is currently staying at a shelter home in Lahore.

Allegations of Abduction and Coercion

Sarbjit Kaur’s family has made serious allegations, claiming that she was abducted, blackmailed, and forcibly converted to Islam before being married off against her will. According to her husband Karnail Singh, Sarbjit had been in contact with a Pakistani man named Nasir Hussain via social media. Singh alleges that Hussain lured her, and then began blackmailing her with objectionable videos and photographs, using them to manipulate her and threaten her family.

Forced Travel and Blackmail

Karnail Singh claims that Sarbjit was coerced into traveling to Pakistan. Hussain reportedly sent her family the explicit content repeatedly to intimidate them. Reports by CNN-News18 indicate that audio and video recordings exist in which Sarbjit can be heard pleading for help and expressing her desire to return to India, asserting that she is not free.

Legal Proceedings in Lahore High Court

These allegations have emerged while the Lahore High Court is hearing Sarbjit Kaur’s case. The court is examining the alleged misuse of her pilgrimage visa and the legality of her marriage in Pakistan. Reports have been requested from several governmental bodies, including the Prime Minister’s Office, the Federal Investigation Agency, and the Punjab Police.

Hindrances to Her Return

Last week, reports suggested that preparations were underway for Sarbjit’s deportation to India. She had undergone a medical examination and was declared fit for travel. However, the Pakistani Ministry of Interior did not issue a special travel permit or No Objection Certificate (NOC), preventing her return via the Wagah border.

While abduction and forced marriage of minority women in Pakistan have been documented in the past, this case is notable because the victim was traveling as part of a religious delegation from India. The incident has reignited concerns about the safety and rights of minorities in Pakistan.