News Desk
Peshawar, April 18, 2026:
A workshop aimed at sensitizing media professionals on inclusive legal reforms for marginalized communities, with a special focus on Christian personal laws, was held in Peshawar. The event was organized by the National Lobbying Delegation for Minority Rights.
The workshop brought together a diverse group of journalists, including radio broadcasters, photojournalists, and representatives from print and electronic media. Non-Muslim media professionals were also part of the attendance, contributing to an inclusive dialogue.
Key speakers included Haroon Sarab Diyal, Focal Person of the National Lobbying Delegation for Minority Rights, along with delegation members Romana Bashir (ICT), Sheezan William (Balochistan), Habkook Rafiq Gill (Punjab), and media consultant Shabana Arif.
Speakers emphasized the responsibility of media professionals to promote awareness about constitutional rights and legal protections.
Participants were urged to exercise these rights as responsible citizens and contribute to an inclusive society. Media representatives were also encouraged to advocate for legal reforms within Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
A central focus of the workshop was the critical examination of key Christian personal laws, including the Christian Marriage Act 1872, the Divorce Act 1869, and the Christian Succession Act 1925. These laws were described as colonial-era frameworks containing outdated provisions requiring urgent reforms.
Property inheritance laws and distribution were also discussed during the session as part of broader deliberations on legal reforms affecting Christian communities.
Speakers further noted that while the Christian Marriage law had undergone changes during the tenure of Zia-ul-Haq and more recently in 2024, implementation challenges persist due to lack of awareness among stakeholders, weak enforcement, and the existence of parallel legal systems.
Participants discussed the role of media in bridging the gap between legislation and public awareness, particularly on sensitive issues such as personal laws, child protection, and minority rights.
The workshop concluded with a call for stronger collaboration between media, civil society, and policymakers to advocate for inclusive legal reforms and ensure effective implementation of laws for the protection of all citizens.