Justice for Zarnab Noor: Standing Against Child Abuse and Injustice in Pakistan

Justice for Zarnab Noor

The horrific abuse of a 13-year-old Christian girl has once again highlighted the dangers faced by underage domestic workers in Pakistan.

The victim, Zarnab Noor, daughter of Shariya Bibi from Choti Kalan, District Kasur, was sent seven months ago to work as a domestic helper through an agent at the home of Bao Tariq Gujjar and his wife, Naml Bibi, in Johar Town, Lahore. She was employed for a monthly wage of Rs 15,000.

On 23 January 2026, Zarnab returned home in a state of severe physical and psychological trauma. Her head had been forcibly shaved, and her body showed signs of prolonged torture. She reported repeated beatings, unlawful confinement, humiliation, and deliberate isolation from her family. Zarnab said she was subjected to violence over minor issues and treated in a degrading and dehumanising manner.

According to her account, after initial abuse at the Johar Town residence, she was taken to a second location in Gawalmandi, where her hands and feet were tied. During this assault, Naml Bibi allegedly threatened to kill her and dispose of her body in a sewer.

Her father, Thomas, said that extreme poverty forced him to send his daughter to work to support the family. He described the first month of her employment as normal, but said the abuse began thereafter. He expressed shock and heartbreak at seeing his daughter return in such a condition, emphasising that the accused are influential figures.

Zarnab’s family confirmed the allegations, stating that she was repeatedly beaten, locked in a toilet for hours, and denied contact with her family, including during Christmas. Civil society organisations and human rights advocates have called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of the accused under relevant sections of the Pakistan Penal Code, including criminal intimidation, wrongful confinement, causing hurt, and cruelty to a child.

This horrifying incident is not isolated. It highlights the vulnerability of poor and minority children in Pakistan, especially those working as domestic helpers. Many children are forced into labor due to extreme poverty, depriving them of education and exposing them to abuse, exploitation, and human rights violations.

Samaritan’s Fellowship Foundation, committed to human rights, minority protection, and ending modern slavery, strongly demands:

• Immediate arrest and legal action against the perpetrators
• Full protection and support for Zarnab Noor and her family
• Swift and transparent delivery of justice
• Awareness and policy action to prevent such incidents in the future

We also urge Honorable Chief Minister of Punjab, Ms. Maryam Nawaz, to take immediate notice of this case and ensure justice is served.

How You Can Support

Samaritan’s Fellowship Foundation is actively working to protect vulnerable children and communities across Pakistan. You can help by:

• Praying for Zarnab Noor and her family
• Spreading awareness about child abuse and minority rights
• Partnering with us as a prayer or giving partner to fund programs that rescue and empower children at risk

The story of Zarnab Noor is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by vulnerable children in Pakistan. With collective effort from civil society, government, and compassionate individuals, we can ensure protection, justice, and a future free from violence for children like Zarnab. Let us stand together to protect the innocent and uphold justice.

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