Facing Forced Marriage in Pakistan? Here's What To Do

If you are being forced into marriage in Pakistan, or if someone used a fake nikah to exploit you, here is exactly what your rights are and who can help you right now.

Forced Marriage Is Illegal in Pakistan — You Have Rights

The Muslim Family Laws Ordinance 1961 and various provincial laws protect your right to consent. A nikah without free and full consent is void under Islamic law.

Your Legal Rights

You have the legal right to refuse any marriage — a guardian cannot override this
A nikah without wali approval AND bride's consent is invalid under MFLO 1961
Forced marriage is criminalised under the Child Marriage Restraint Act (and amendments)
You can seek a court injunction to prevent a forced marriage
Courts have granted protection orders to individuals facing forced marriage

Fake Nikah Fraud — How It Works

Some individuals conduct a nikah ceremony with no legal registration, or forge documents, specifically to:

Gain sexual access under the guise of Islamic marriage
Create leverage for blackmail or extortion
Avoid legal accountability ("we were married") after exploitation

A nikah is only legally valid when registered with the Union Council within 30 days (MFLO 1961 Section 5). Unregistered "nikahs" are not legally binding.

If You Are In Danger Right Now

Call 1099 (Rescue/Police Emergency)
Go to the nearest Women's Protection Centre or Dar-ul-Aman (government shelter)
Contact Edhi Foundation: 115 (free shelter, 24/7)
Call Umang helpline (Aurat Foundation): 0311-7786264
Contact WAR (Women Against Rape) Karachi: 021-35362834

Legal Help — Fast

LHRLA Legal Aid: 042-35761999
HRCP: 042-35761999
Aurat Foundation: 051-2814920
Any District and Sessions Court can hear an urgent writ petition

zinaaa — Consent Is Everything 💋