Fashion designer Deepak Perwani, a prominent figure in Pakistan's fashion industry, recently took a bold stance on the pervasive issue of forced conversions within the country. Using his social media platform, Perwani spoke out against this concerning practice, particularly highlighting the plight of Hindu girls who are often forced to convert to Islam to marry Muslim men.
In a compelling post on X, Perwani drew attention to the alarming trend of Hindu girls being coerced into conversion for marriage while pointing out the lack of reciprocal conversions, emphasising the inherent imbalance and injustice in such situations. He criticised the prevailing state of affairs in Pakistan, calling for an end to forced conversions and condemning the apparent inaction of the responsible authorities in addressing this crucial issue.
"So only Hindu girls want to convert to marry Muslims in Pakistan and no Muslim girl ever converts to marry a Hindu in Pakistan?" queried the designer. "Stop forced conversions. It’s a dark reality that Pakistan needs to change if it wants to move forward." He further used the hashtag 'HRCP,' alongside the phrase 'shame on,' implying his dismay with the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan.
So only #Hindu girls want to convert to marry #Muslims in #pakistan and no Muslim girls ever converts to marry a Hindu in pakistan . Stop #forcedconversions . It’s a dark reality that pakistan needs to change if it wants to move forward . Shame on #HumanRights #hrcp pic.twitter.com/82gmMFnBZh
— Deepak perwani (@DPerwani) December 19, 2023
Being a member of the Hindu Sindhi community in Pakistan, Perwani's impassioned plea comes at a potential personal risk due to the sensitive nature of the subject. Nevertheless, the designer, known for his significant influence and outspokenness on social issues, opted to raise his voice against the prevalent forced conversions, despite the potential backlash.
Perwani's social media presence, particularly on X, has been a platform for him to express his opinions on various socio-political matters. He has previously addressed diverse topics ranging from economic policies, governance, and the advent of international brands in Pakistan. His recent commentary on forced conversions marks another instance where Perwani has utilised his platform to bring attention to critical societal issues that require urgent redressal.
The rising cases of forced conversions, particularly affecting minority communities in Pakistan, have garnered widespread attention and concern. Perwani's vocal stance sheds light on the urgent need for tangible actions to curb this practice and promote a more inclusive and just society, prompting crucial conversations about human rights and religious freedom within the country.
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Read the full story at the express tribune website.
