A couple from Multan moved the Lahore High Court (LHC) on Tuesday, seeking protection against a panchayat which had reportedly forced the couple into a divorce.

Submitting an affidavit rejecting the decision of the panchayat, Uzma Batool said that she had married Mohammad Adnan of her own accord but a panchayat comprising family members of Batool and Adnan had forced Adnan to divorce her on gunpoint.

The couple has, through the petition, claimed that they are being threatened for remaining in contact and require protection. Adnan has also submitted an application, seeking protection, with local police in Muzaffarabad Town near Multan.