"Perilous Transitions: The Reality of Forced Conversions and Marriages in Sindh"

Abstract

### Abstract This research paper examines the drastic decline of minority populations in Sindh, Pakistan, since the partition in 1947, from 25% to a mere 3%. This demographic shift is intricately linked to the pervasive practices of forced conversions and marriages, primarily targeting Hindu and Christian minorities. These human rights violations are perpetuated by both legal and societal frameworks that warrant thorough investigation. The paper delves into the broader context of Islamophobia, as defined by the British Runnymede Trust, which includes both the fear and hatred of Islam and systemic discrimination against Muslims. However, it also addresses the radical elements within Islam that exploit religious principles to further extremist agendas, thus fueling Islamophobia. The research employs secondary quantitative data and interviews with 50 displaced individuals from the Sindhi community, focusing on those who migrated post-partition and in the late 1990s. The findings reveal that forced conversions and marriages significantly contribute to a climate of fear and discrimination, exacerbating existing tensions and reinforcing beliefs in Islamophobia. The socio-economic and cultural impacts on minority communities are profound, leading to widespread prejudice and systemic inequalities. This paper aims to shed light on the mechanisms of these coercive practices and their implications for minority communities in Sindh. It calls for concerted efforts to address religious persecution through concrete policy interventions and promotes an environment of tolerance and inclusion. The research underscores the need to move beyond labeling the threat of radical Islam as a mere phobia, advocating for genuine solutions to safeguard minority rights and promote religious freedom.