Source: www.MNNonline.org
Date: June 10, 2026
Pakistan (MNN) — An acid attack on a female doctor in Quetta has renewed concerns about the safety of women across Pakistan.
Doctor Mahnoor Nasir was attacked while working at a hospital in Quetta on Saturday, sparking protests and calls for greater protections for women. The incident also highlights a broader issue. Women in Pakistan face widespread abuse, particularly when they challenge traditional social expectations. Young girls from religious minority communities are often among the most vulnerable.
Greg Musselman with Voice of the Martyrs Canada says many Christian girls are kidnapped and forced into marriages against their will.
Women processing grain outdoors in Sargodha, Punjab (photo courtesy of Ahmar Graphy via Pexels)
“We know of so many young women and girls who have been kidnapped and are living in horrible situations right now, forced against their will into marriage,” says Musselman.
Despite these challenges, there has been some progress. Earlier this year, Pakistan’s Punjab province ratified the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, a law designed to strengthen protections for women.
Regarding the new law, Musselman says, “It’s also hoped that this law will now protect the kidnapping, forced conversions, and marriage of Christian girls.”
However, he cautions that laws alone cannot solve the problem. Without consistent enforcement, vulnerable women and girls remain at risk. The 2026 Act marks an important step forward in Punjab, but advocates say stronger protections and enforcement are needed throughout Pakistan.
Musselman says the trauma these girls endure is immense and calls believers to act: “So many of the other girls [suffer], and then again the trauma, the pain, and all that goes on. So we definitely need to continue praying.”
Pray that Pakistan’s laws will be enforced, that authorities will protect vulnerable women and girls, and that those responsible for abuse will be held accountable. Pray also that Pakistan will be designated a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) in 2026, and that international pressure will help protect religious minorities.
Visit Voice of the Martyrs Canada to learn how you can pray for and support the church in Pakistan.
Header photo: A group of people traveling on a donkey cart through rural Sindh, Pakistan (photo courtesy of Saeed Ahmed Abbasi via Pexels).