Daharki, Sindh – August 23, 2025
A dramatic incident unfolded outside the Daharki court premises on Saturday when a young couple, who had recently contracted a love marriage, narrowly escaped a forced abduction attempt. The timely intervention of police officials stationed on duty prevented what could have been a traumatic kidnapping.

The Incident

According to local reports, the couple—identified as Imtiaz Gargij and Naseem Mai—were arriving at the court premises in a lawyer’s vehicle to seek legal protection for their marriage. As soon as they reached the main gate of the Daharki court, unknown individuals allegedly linked to their rival faction attempted to forcibly pull them out of the car. The attackers reportedly tried to overpower the lawyer’s driver and open the vehicle’s doors.

However, police personnel present at the court premises noticed the commotion and rushed to the scene. Acting swiftly, they intervened and managed to stop the abductors before they could succeed in dragging the couple away. The attempted kidnapping was thus thwarted within minutes, ensuring the safety of the pair.

Couple’s Account

Shaken by the incident, Imtiaz Gargij and his wife Naseem Mai later appeared at the Daharki Press Club, where they recounted their ordeal before the media. The couple stated that they had married each other out of free will, without coercion, and that their union was purely consensual.

“Our opponents tried to snatch us and take us away against our will,” Imtiaz told reporters, his voice trembling with anger and fear. “We came here only to seek legal protection for our marriage, but we were attacked instead.” Naseem added, “We only want to live our life together in peace. Why should anyone interfere in our personal choice? We beg the authorities to protect us.”

The couple appealed to higher officials, including senior police officers and the judiciary, to ensure their safety so they could live without fear of harassment or violence.

Police Statement

A spokesperson for the Daharki police confirmed the incident and highlighted the swift response of officers on duty. “The attempted abduction took place right at the entrance of the court, within judicial limits,” the spokesperson said. “Our personnel present on the spot immediately intervened, foiled the abduction attempt, and provided protection to the couple.”

Police sources added that they are investigating the individuals involved in the attack and are considering filing criminal charges of attempted abduction. Authorities assured the couple that their security would be taken seriously and that they would remain under official protection while their legal case proceeded.

Background and Context

Love marriages in Sindh, particularly in rural districts like Ghotki, often spark controversy due to entrenched tribal traditions, family honor issues, and social pressures. Couples who marry without family consent frequently face threats of violence, abduction, or forced separation. Many young men and women seeking to secure their union turn to local courts in hopes of gaining legal protection from harassment by their families or communities.

The Daharki incident underscores this ongoing social conflict, where the right of individuals to choose their life partners collides with conservative norms and collective family honor. Despite legal protections under Pakistani law, enforcement often proves difficult due to pressure from local influentials and tribal affiliations.

Broader Implications

The attempted kidnapping highlights the urgent need for robust state intervention to safeguard basic human rights, particularly for women and young couples asserting their autonomy. Rights groups have long argued that the state must ensure courts remain safe zones where individuals can seek justice and protection without fear of intimidation or violence.

Civil society activists in Sindh emphasized that this is not an isolated case. Over the years, numerous couples have faced threats and abduction attempts after choosing to marry freely. Some cases have tragically resulted in honor killings or lifelong separation.

“Police intervention today saved two lives,” said a local human rights activist. “But for every case that is prevented, there are many that go unreported or end in tragedy. The state must strengthen its mechanisms to protect such vulnerable individuals.”

Demands from the Couple

At the press club, Imtiaz and Naseem pleaded for continued security, pointing out that their opponents remained at large and could strike again. They called on senior officials to ensure permanent protection, so they could live together without fear. They also requested the government to take legal action against those who attempted their abduction, saying impunity would only encourage further violence.

Conclusion

The Daharki abduction attempt, though thwarted, serves as a stark reminder of the challenges couples face in exercising their fundamental right to marry by choice in parts of Sindh. While police intervention saved the day on this occasion, the larger issue of protecting such couples remains unresolved. Unless stronger protective measures, legal support systems, and community awareness campaigns are put in place, many more young people may find themselves trapped between personal freedom and societal constraints.

For Imtiaz Gargij and Naseem Mai, their fight is not just about love—it is about survival. Their demand is simple: the right to live their life together without fear, a right every citizen of Pakistan is guaranteed under the constitution.