Church Planting and Gospel Outreach Among Brick-Kiln Bonded Labour Families in Pakistan

Thursday, 12 November 2026

Church Planting and Gospel Outreach Among Brick-Kiln Bonded Labour Families in Pakistan

LEAD MINISTRIES® – MISSION FIELD UPDATE | TOBA TEK SINGH, PUNJAB, PAKISTAN

Bringing the Gospel of Jesus Christ, planting churches, and sharing hope among vulnerable brick-kiln bonded labour families. Through Pastor Zafar's ongoing evangelism, Christian fellowship, Bible discipleship, and pastoral outreach, LEAD Ministries is working to establish a Christ-centred community while standing for freedom, dignity, justice, and the protection of vulnerable families.

Serving with Faith. Standing for Justice. Restoring Lives and Hope.

Reported by Pastor Imran Amanat, Vice President – LEAD Ministries®

LEAD MINISTRIES® – MISSION FIELD UPDATE

Location: District Toba Tek Singh, Punjab, Pakistan

Field Mission Worker: Pastor Zafar

Ministry: Legal Evangelical Association Development (LEAD Ministries)

Report by: Pastor Imran Amanat, Vice President – LEAD Ministries

Bringing the Gospel and Hope to Brick-Kiln Communities

LEAD Ministries continues its mission to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ and serve vulnerable and marginalized communities across Pakistan.

We are pleased to share an update from our ongoing evangelism and church planting activities among brick-kiln workers and their families in District Toba Tek Singh, Punjab.

Many families in these communities face poverty, debt bondage (Peshgi), bonded labour, limited educational opportunities, and social vulnerability.

Our field minister, Pastor Zafar, is actively reaching these families through Gospel outreach, Christian fellowship, prayer, and pastoral encouragement.

Our purpose is to bring the message of Jesus Christ to families who have limited opportunities to participate in regular Christian fellowship.

Gospel Outreach and Christian Fellowship

Recent outreach activities brought together men, women, and children from the brick-kiln community for Christian fellowship and Gospel sharing.

Pastor Zafar is building relationships with local families, sharing God's Word, and encouraging people to discover the hope and salvation found in Jesus Christ.

These gatherings provide opportunities for:

Sharing the Gospel and biblical teaching.
Encouraging prayer and Christian fellowship.
Reaching women and children with spiritual encouragement.
Building relationships with vulnerable families.
Identifying opportunities for continued discipleship.

We believe that sharing the Gospel and demonstrating Christ's love can bring lasting hope and encouragement to individuals and families.

Church Planting: Building a Local Christian Community

An important objective of LEAD Ministries is to establish and strengthen local churches in underserved communities.

Our church planting initiative in Toba Tek Singh aims to develop a local Christian fellowship where people can regularly gather for worship, prayer, Bible study, and spiritual growth.

Through Pastor Zafar's continued ministry, we are working towards building a Christ-centred community that encourages new believers, strengthens Christian families, and develops local spiritual leadership.

Church planting is not simply about establishing a meeting place; it is about nurturing faith, making disciples, and building a lasting Christian community.

Standing for Freedom, Dignity and Justice

LEAD Ministries recognizes that brick-kiln families face challenges beyond their spiritual needs.

Bonded labour, debt bondage, poverty, exploitation, and limited educational opportunities particularly affect vulnerable women and children.

Our wider mission therefore includes promoting human dignity, freedom, children's education, family rehabilitation, and protection from exploitation.

Through our Release, Relocation and Rehabilitation (RRR) work, we seek to support vulnerable families towards freedom, security, and a better future.

We believe every person deserves dignity, justice, freedom, and the opportunity to live with hope.

Our Christian mission combines Gospel outreach with compassionate service and a commitment to protecting vulnerable communities.

Our Mission Priorities in Toba Tek Singh

LEAD Ministries intends to continue strengthening this mission through:

Regular Gospel outreach among brick-kiln families.
Developing and strengthening a local Christian fellowship.
Supporting Pastor Zafar's evangelistic and pastoral ministry.
Bible teaching and discipleship for new believers.
Spiritual encouragement and pastoral care for women and children.
Promoting awareness of bonded labour and children's protection.

Our vision is to see a growing Christian community established through faith, prayer, discipleship, and local leadership.

Prayer and Partnership Appeal

We invite churches, Christian organizations, mission agencies, pastors, and individual believers to remember this mission in their prayers.

Please pray for:

Pastor Zafar and his ministry among brick-kiln families.
The families attending Gospel fellowship gatherings.
The establishment and growth of a local Christian church.
New believers to grow in faith and biblical understanding.
Freedom, protection, education, and dignity for vulnerable families.
God's provision for continued evangelism, church planting, and pastoral ministry.

We also welcome Christian mission partners who wish to support our work through prayer, encouragement, church planting, evangelism, Bible discipleship, and community development.

Your partnership can help us reach more families with the Gospel and strengthen the local Church.

Our Biblical Foundation

Matthew 28:19 (KJV)

"Go ye therefore, and teach all nations..."

Luke 4:18 (KJV)

"The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor..."

These Scriptures inspire our commitment to proclaim the Gospel, reach marginalized communities, make disciples, and demonstrate the love of Christ through compassionate service.

LEAD MINISTRIES®

Legal Evangelical Association Development

Serving with Faith. Standing for Justice. Restoring Lives and Hope.

Our mission is to advance the Gospel of Jesus Christ, plant churches, make disciples, support pastors, protect vulnerable families, and stand for freedom and dignity among marginalized communities.

Together, let us reach the unreached, strengthen the Church, share the love of Christ, and bring hope to families who need it most.

Pastor Imran Amanat

Vice President

LEAD MINISTRIES®

Serving Christ. Reaching Communities. Transforming Lives.

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Zulfiqar Masih – President of LEAD Ministries®

Zulfiqar Masih – President of LEAD Ministries Zulfiqar Masih serves as President of LEAD Ministries – LEAD (Legal Evangelical Association Development), a Christian, faith-based charitable and non-profit organization serving vulnerable communities in Pakistan. He leads release and relocation activities under the Release, Relocation and Rehabilitation (RRR) Project for Bonded Brick Kiln Labourers, supporting families affected by bonded labour, debt bondage (Peshgi), and exploitation. His mission is to help families pursue freedom, relocate to safer living conditions, and rebuild their lives with dignity. He is particularly committed to protecting children from labour exploitation and promoting education to break the cycle of generational bonded labour. Contact Information Name: Zulfiqar Masih Position: President, LEAD Ministries Location: Pakistan WhatsApp: +92 301 4193781 Website: https://leadfamily.blogspot.com/ Working for freedom, dignity, justice, and a brighter future for bonded brick kiln labourers and their children in Pakistan.

Pastor Imran Amanat and Farzana Imran with Their Ministry Team – Church Planting, Evangelism

Pastor Imran Amanat and Farzana Imran with Their Ministry Team – Church Planting, Evangelism and Bible Discipleship LEAD Ministries – LEAD (Legal Evangelical Association Development), Pakistan Pastor Imran Amanat, Vice President of LEAD Ministries, and Farzana Imran, Secretary of LEAD Ministries®, work alongside their ministry team to advance the Gospel of Jesus Christ through church planting, evangelism, Bible discipleship, and support for persecuted Christians and vulnerable communities in Pakistan. Together, they seek to establish and strengthen biblically grounded churches, equip pastors and emerging Christian leaders, nurture believers through Bible teaching and prayer, and encourage Christians facing persecution, discrimination, and hardship. Our Mission Guided by the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19–20, our team is committed to sharing the Gospel, planting churches in underserved communities, developing committed disciples of Jesus Christ, strengthening local churches, and preparing the next generation of Christian leaders. We also seek to provide spiritual encouragement, pastoral care, and compassionate support to persecuted Christians and families experiencing hardship. Seeking Ministry Partners LEAD Ministries welcomes partnerships with churches, Christian organizations, mission agencies, and individual supporters who share our vision for church planting, evangelism, Bible discipleship, pastoral training, and helping persecuted Christians. Through prayer, collaboration, ministry training, and support under agreed partnership arrangements, we aim to expand our Bible mission and reach more communities with the message of Christ's love, hope, and salvation. “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations.” — Matthew 28:19 LEAD Ministries – LEAD (Legal Evangelical Association Development) Working together to plant churches, make disciples, strengthen believers, and serve vulnerable communities through the love of Jesus Christ.

LEAD Ministries® RRR Project Team – Working for Freedom from Bonded Labour

LEAD Ministries RRR Project Team – Working for Freedom from Bonded Labour The Release, Relocation and Rehabilitation (RRR) Project Team of LEAD Ministries – LEAD (Legal Evangelical Association Development) works through our partner organization to support brick kiln workers and families affected by bonded labour, debt bondage (Peshgi), and exploitation in Pakistan. Led by Zulfiqar Masih, the team promotes freedom, safe relocation, family rehabilitation, and sustainable livelihoods, with a special focus on children's education and protection from labour exploitation. Our Team: Zulfiqar Masih, Rev. Saleem Gill, Pastor Imran Amanat, Waqar Masih, Farzana Imran, Naseem Zulfiqar, Swera Ishaq, and Safiya Bibi. Together, we work for freedom, dignity, justice, and a brighter future for children and families. LEAD Ministries – Serving with faith, compassion, and commitment.

LEAD Ministries® | Leadership, Team & International Advocacy

LEAD MINISTRIES® — A UNITED TEAM, A STRONGER VOICE FOR JUSTICE United in faith, committed to truth, and driven by the pursuit of justice, LEAD Ministries® stands for human dignity, religious freedom, human rights, and the protection of vulnerable communities. We advocate for persecuted Christians, stand against bonded labour and exploitation, promote children's education, empower families, and support sustainable family development. Through dedicated leadership, compassionate service, international advocacy, and community partnerships, we strive to amplify the voices of the voiceless, protect the vulnerable, create educational opportunities for children, and build stronger, safer and more resilient families. Our Mission. Our Commitment. Our Responsibility. Human Rights & Religious Freedom Protection of Persecuted Christians Ending Bonded Labour & Exploitation Children's Education & Protection Family Development & Empowerment Human Dignity, Equality & Justice 📖 Proverbs 31:8–9 (KJV) Verse 8: “Open thy mouth for the dumb in the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction.” Verse 9: “Open thy mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.” LEAD Ministries® — Speaking for the Voiceless. Protecting the Vulnerable. Educating Children. Empowering Families. Standing for Justice. One Mission. One Team. A Lasting Impact.

🌟 Mission: To Protect Faith and Families 🌟 💛

The Women Fellowship Ministry of LEAD Ministries®, led by Farzana Imran, empowers Christian women and girls in Pakistan facing abduction, forced conversion, coerced marriage, and social discrimination. Our sessions provide faith, courage, and practical skills to help them stand strong. LEAD Ministries, led by Pastor Imran Amanat and Farzana Imran, serves persecuted Christians through church planting, discipleship, Women Fellowships, Pastor Care, rescuing families from bonded labor, and advocacy. Your support helps us: ✨ Strengthen churches ✨ Empower women and girls ✨ Support pastors ✨ Redeem families in slavery ✨ Advocate for persecuted Christians 💛 #LEADMinistries #PersecutedChurch #WomenFellowship #FaithInAction #HopeInChrist

Official Statement – LEAD Ministries®

LEAD Ministries LEAD Ministries clarifies that its official blog, and associated social media accounts operated by the organization or its authorized representatives, including its founder, Sardar Mushtaq Gill, do not contain or promote blasphemous content. Any such material appearing on unauthorized websites, blogs, or social media accounts using the name of LEAD Ministries or Sardar Mushtaq Gill is not authorized or endorsed by the organization. LEAD Ministries is committed to religious, charitable, humanitarian, relief, and human rights advocacy. Our mission includes promoting freedom of religion or belief, supporting persecuted communities, providing pastoral care, and advocating for victims of blasphemy laws and other human rights violations. We also work to combat bonded labor in brick kilns through a project led by Zulfiqar Masih. Our church-planting and Bible mission activities are led by Pastor Imran Amanat and Farzana Imran. All our activities are conducted peacefully and in accordance with our Christian faith and respect for the fundamental rights and freedoms of others. We uphold every individual’s right to freedom of religion or belief and do not seek to harm, threaten, or interfere with the religious freedom of any person or community. We urge the public and relevant authorities to verify the authenticity and source of online content before attributing it to LEAD Ministries, Sardar Mushtaq Gill, or the organization’s members. Only content published through our official channels or otherwise expressly authorized by us should be considered representative of our work and views. Guided by the teachings of Jesus Christ, we remain committed to serving humanity with love, compassion, and integrity. Our mission is to promote religious freedom, protect human dignity, assist vulnerable communities, provide humanitarian relief, and advocate peacefully for justice and equality for all, regardless of religion or belief.

Pastor Imran Amanat & Farzana Imran – Called to Serve

Pastor Imran Amanat and his wife, Farzana Imran, have dedicated their lives to serving Christ and His people through LEAD Ministries in Pakistan. Their ministry is not defined by a title, but by the work God has called them to do: sharing the Gospel, discipling new believers, and strengthening local churches. Pastor Imran began his journey with personal outreach, growing into a mission that combines evangelism, church development, and advocacy for marginalized and persecuted Christian communities. Farzana complements this work by leading women’s and children’s ministries, discipleship programs, and community outreach that empowers families and nurtures faith. Together, they embody the heart of LEAD Ministries’ mission: bringing hope, faith, and practical support to communities in need. Their story is a living testimony that ministry is about answering God’s call, persevering through challenges, and serving others with courage, faith, and hope.

Women Fellowship Ministry

🌸 Christian Women Fellowship 🌸 LEAD Ministries conducted a Christian Women Fellowship focused on Gospel-centered teaching, faith formation, and the protection of Christian women and girls, grounded in the truth that “you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32). The fellowship strengthened biblical understanding, affirmed Christian identity, and equipped participants to live faithfully while promoting peaceful coexistence without compromising their faith (Matthew 5:9). This fellowship was held in response to documented cases of abduction, forced conversion, and coerced marriage of Christian women and underage girls, particularly in Punjab and Sindh. Human-rights organizations and church networks have reported that extremist elements exploit poverty, social vulnerability, and weak law enforcement to target Christian minorities—especially women and girls. The sessions addressed sound Gospel doctrine (2 Timothy 3:16), respectful defense of faith (1 Peter 3:15), awareness of coercive conversion tactics, personal safety, spiritual resilience, and community support, encouraging believers to “stand firm in the faith” (1 Corinthians 16:13). Through the Women Fellowship Ministry of LEAD Ministries, outreach continues from village to village, equipping Christian women and girls to live with dignity and courage in Christ. We humbly request prayer and support to continue this ministry, trusting that “the Lord is our refuge and strength” (Psalm 46:1). — Swera Ishaq LEAD Ministries 29 January 2026 | 📍Punjab

Women Fellowship Ministry

🌸 Christian Women Fellowship Initiative 🌸 LEAD Ministries conducted a Women Fellowship Initiative focused on Gospel-based teaching, faith formation, and protection of Christian women and girls. The program emphasized strengthening biblical understanding, defending Christian faith and values, and developing wisdom and discernment when engaging with individuals of other religious backgrounds. This initiative was undertaken in response to documented cases of abduction, forced conversion, and coerced marriage of Christian women and girls, particularly in parts of Punjab and Sindh. Human-rights organizations, church networks, and legal advocates have repeatedly highlighted how extremist elements exploit social vulnerability, poverty, and weak legal enforcement to pressure Christian minorities—especially women—into abandoning their faith. The fellowship sessions addressed: Clear understanding of the Gospel and Christian doctrine How to respectfully defend Christian faith and values Awareness of coercive tactics used in forced conversions Personal safety, spiritual resilience, and community support Encouraging peaceful coexistence without compromising faith Through the Women Fellowship Ministry of LEAD Ministries, outreach continues village to village and house to house, equipping Christian women and girls to stand firm in Christ, safeguard their faith, and live with dignity, courage, and unity. — Farzana Imran Leader, LEAD Ministries 📅 24 January 2026 📍 Village Sunder, Punjab

Women Fellowship Ministry

✨ Women’s Bible Discipleship Fellowship | Bhai Pheru, Punjab, Pakistan 🇵🇰📖 On January 5, 2026, Swera Ishaq led an inspiring gathering at LEAD Ministries’ second Ministry Place. Women from the community came together to grow spiritually, deepen their faith, and encourage one another through God’s Word. Refreshments were shared, creating a warm and welcoming environment. 💛🙏 LEAD Ministries also provided a whiteboard and essential stationery items to support learning and discipleship. We praise God for this ministry of faith, discipleship, and empowerment. As the fellowship grows, we humbly request support for additional chairs, three tables, Urdu Bibles, Punjab & Urdu Zaboor (hymn books), and ongoing monthly support for ministry efforts. After years of witnessing cases of forcible conversion to Islam for marriage, affecting Christian women and girls—including underage girls and even married women—LEAD Ministries launched the Women’s Bible Discipleship Fellowship. This initiative was created to strengthen, equip, and empower women spiritually, while providing a safe and nurturing community where they can grow in faith and resilience. As an example, today LEAD Ministries learned that a 13-year-old Christian girl, Aneeqa Fiaz, daughter of Fiaz Masih, has been kidnapped and forcibly converted for marriage. Let’s celebrate the lives being strengthened through God’s Word! #LEADMinistries #WomenBibleFellowship #FaithInAction #SpiritualGrowth #CommunityEmpowerment #DiscipleshipMatters #KasurMinistry

Women Fellowship Ministry

🌸 Women Bible Discipleship Fellowship 🌸 A community dedicated to empowering and encouraging Christian women in faith, prayer, and biblical teachings. Led by Farzana Imran (Director of Ministry), supported by Sawera Ishaq and supervised by Pastor Imran Amanat (Director of LEAD Ministries), this fellowship strengthens women’s faith, supports their spiritual growth, and offers biblical guidance. Vision of Sardar Mushtaq Gill (Founder, LEAD Ministries): To empower Christian women and girls in Pakistan to stand firm in their faith and live boldly for Christ, despite challenges and persecution. Mission of LEAD Ministries: To provide biblical teaching and discipleship to help believers grow in their relationship with God. LEAD Ministries also works to protect and guide women and girls in making godly decisions, especially in the face of societal pressures. 🕊️ Join us for Bible teachings, prayer, and spiritual growth! 🕊️ Stay connected, stay blessed.

Founder | International Advocacy Director of LEAD | Blogger | Advocate FoRB and Persecuted Christian

Sardar Mushtaq Gill: A Human Rights Defender’s Struggle for Religious Freedom, Justice, and Family Safety Sardar Mushtaq Gill is a Pakistani human rights defender, lawyer, and Christian advocate dedicated to defending religious minorities, assisting victims of persecution, and promoting freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) in Pakistan. In 2006, he founded LEAD Ministries, an organization committed to challenging religious discrimination, providing legal assistance to vulnerable individuals, and promoting justice, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence. Gill is married and has four children. His human rights advocacy has exposed him and his family to threats, intimidation, and allegations that he believes were intended to discredit his work and discourage him from defending persecuted communities. His commitment to human dignity extends beyond his own religious community. In May 2005, Gill and his brother intervened to protect a Muslim professor accused of blasphemy who was facing an angry mob. Despite being threatened during the intervention, they succeeded in saving the professor’s life. This incident illustrates Gill’s commitment to protecting human life regardless of religious affiliation and his conviction that blasphemy accusations must never justify mob violence or extrajudicial punishment. In January 2007, Gill’s cousin, Martha Bibi, a Christian woman, was accused of blasphemy following a dispute involving construction materials rented to a mosque. The accusation placed Martha Bibi and her family at risk and contributed to growing hostility toward Gill because of his support for her. In August 2007, Gill himself was accused of blasphemy by Dr. Khiali Farooqi, whom Gill identifies as being associated with Ahle Sunnat Wal Jamaat (ASWJ). Following the accusation, Gill received threatening letters, which were reported to the police. A First Information Report (FIR) was registered against unknown individuals in connection with the threats. Gill believes these events were intended to intimidate him, endanger his family, and silence his human rights advocacy. In 2015, a fake Facebook account was created in Martha Bibi’s name and used to circulate material described as blasphemous. Gill and members of his team were accused of uploading or spreading the material through the account. Gill denied responsibility and maintained that he and his colleagues had been falsely implicated. He believes these allegations were intended to damage his reputation, undermine LEAD Ministries, and expose his family to further danger. Gill also experienced death threats from individuals he associates with ASWJ and supporters of Mumtaz Hussain Qadri, including an individual named Ali Khan. He believes the hostility directed toward him was connected to his work defending people accused of blasphemy, documenting religious discrimination, and raising awareness of the forced conversion to Islam for marriage of Christian women and girls. His advocacy has focused on protecting vulnerable women and girls from abduction, coercion, forced conversion, and forced marriage. He has sought to bring these concerns to the attention of Pakistani authorities, human rights organizations, churches, international policymakers, and the wider global community. His work is guided by the principle that everyone, regardless of religion or belief, deserves personal safety, freedom, equality, and protection under the law. In August 2016, fearing further persecution and harm, Gill was forced to leave Pakistan with his family. The threats and hostility he associated with his human rights work had created serious concerns about their safety. His departure disrupted his family’s life but did not end his commitment to defending religious freedom and assisting vulnerable communities. During his exile, Gill continued to experience online harassment, threats, and malicious complaints. He believes that individuals hostile to his advocacy, particularly his work defending persecuted Christians and victims of the forced conversion and marriage of Christian women and girls, sought to intimidate and harm him and his family, discredit his work, and undermine their refugee resettlement process with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). He identifies Muhammad Arif, Mehboob Basharat, and Shabir Hussain Turi as individuals he believes were involved in these attempts. Gill believes that jealousy, hatred, religiously based hostility, and personal and professional animosity toward him and his human rights advocacy motivated these individuals to seek to harm him and his family through various means, damage his personal and professional reputation, discredit his work, and undermine their USCIS refugee resettlement process. He maintains that he and his family continued to be targeted during their exile, facing ongoing threats, online harassment, and intimidation. He believes these actions were intended to jeopardize his family’s resettlement prospects and undermine their hopes of securing safety, protection, and a stable future in the United States. Gill states that the threats, online harassment, and concerns regarding the individuals involved were reported to the relevant law enforcement agencies. Despite the challenges of displacement, Gill has continued his advocacy through writing, online counseling, and remote engagement with LEAD Ministries. He provides guidance to people facing religious persecution and human rights violations while training and mentoring the organization’s team members to sustain its work in Pakistan. His continued involvement reflects his determination to serve vulnerable communities while protecting his family’s safety. Through LEAD Ministries, Gill and his team work to promote freedom of religion or belief, challenge discrimination, and strengthen respect among people of different religious backgrounds. The organization conducts advocacy meetings, educational workshops, and awareness activities involving women, teachers, and community members. These initiatives seek to discourage religious hatred and violence while encouraging mutual understanding, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence. LEAD Ministries also engages with government authorities and relevant institutions to challenge discriminatory practices and promote equal rights. It provides advocacy and free legal assistance to victims of religious and sectarian violence, including individuals affected by blasphemy accusations and discriminatory laws, without discrimination based on religion or belief. In addition to its human rights work, LEAD Ministries supports humanitarian initiatives addressing bonded labor, slavery, poverty, and the needs of disadvantaged communities. Through education, awareness, advocacy, and practical assistance, Gill and his colleagues seek to protect vulnerable people from exploitation and promote human dignity. Their work is inspired by Christian faith and the principles of compassion, justice, and service to others. Gill remains committed to raising international awareness of religious persecution in Pakistan and encouraging policymakers, churches, human rights institutions, and civil society organizations to take practical measures to protect religious minorities. He believes that defending human rights is a universal responsibility that transcends religious boundaries, as demonstrated by his intervention to save a Muslim professor accused of blasphemy. Sardar Mushtaq Gill and LEAD Ministries continue to advocate for persecuted Christians, religious minorities, and other vulnerable communities. Their mission is grounded in the conviction that every person deserves to live in freedom, peace, equality, and dignity. We appeal to people of goodwill, churches, human rights organizations, policymakers, and international partners to support efforts to defend religious freedom, assist victims of persecution, combat bonded labor and slavery, and protect women and girls from forced conversion and marriage. We also urge the international community to recognize the risks faced by human rights defenders and their families and to support appropriate measures that protect their safety and ability to continue their work. Through prayer, partnership, compassion, and collective action, we can stand in solidarity with those who suffer persecution and injustice and help build a world where religious freedom is respected, human dignity is protected, and peace prevails for all.

May 16,2017:Female Lawyer shot dead in Sheikhupura

Lawyer shot dead in Sheikhupura,Punjab, According to the police, the lawyer, Alia Shehzadi, was going to the local court when unidentified persons shot her dead Tuesday May 16,2017 morning. Shehzadi was a resident of an area near Hiran Minar. In March 2017, a local lawyer was gunned down near Nankana Sahib. Advocate Malik Saleem Latif was on his way to a local court on a motorbike along with his son Advocate Farhan, when the former was targetted and shot at by "unidentified attackers". It is very sad that Government is unable to provide security to lawyers who are under threats.It is strongly condemn this brutal murder and demand that culprits should be dealt with Iron hands. Sardar Mushtaq Gill,human rights defender.

Pastor Zafar Bhatti convicted life imprisonment in blasphemy

Local court has sentenced a Christian to lifetime imprisonment over blasphemy charges.Convict Zafar Bhatti, was tried by the court within the premises of the Adiala Central Jail, Rawalpindi. On May 3,2017, the court sent him to lifelong imprisonment despite there was lack of sound evidence against him.Blasphemy Section 295-C of the Pakistan Penal Code and the Telegraphic Section 25D were invoked against Zafar Bhatti back in 2012. He was accused of sending ‘blasphemous’ text messages from mobile phone sim registered on his co-accused Gazala Khan but through Police investigation she was declared innocent and Zafar Bhatti was found guilty by the Police; moreover, he himself denies the charges.Reportedly ,Ghazala Khan (39) passed away in November 2016 after losing a battle with Hepatitis C, thus surviving the ignominy of being sentenced for blasphemy charges.

A man accused of blasphemy killed after 13 years

April 21,2017-A blasphemy accused gunned down by three women motivated by Mumtaz Hussain Qadri,who killed ex-Governor Punjab Salmaan Taseer in 2011 and later he was hanged to death,the hardliners established a shrine for him . In keeping with details, three women were teachers in Private School and were close friends and wanted to be true follower of their Prophet for this purpose they lynched 50-year-old Fazal Abbas son of Nazar Abbas. Fazal Abbas was allegedly accused of committing blasphemy and had been on the run.Details emerged that Afshan daughter of Ashraf, Amna daughter of Muhammad Khan and Razia wife of Yaseen had stormed into house of Fazal Abbas resident of Nangal Mirza, and opened fire at him. Consequently, Fazal Abbas was severely injured who could not survive the attack. Police details that the women had been arrested and are undergoing investigations.Fazal Abbas had left Pakistan, after he was accused of committing blasphemy back in 2004.

A Pakistani university student has been lynched over alleged blasphemy accusations.

April 13, 2017-Mashal Khan student of Abdul Wali Khan University in Mardan was killed by fellow students for allegedly “publishing blasphemous content online”, local police confirmed. This incident occurred within the premises of university.Abdullah, one of the three students accused of spreading "blasphemous content" by the mob that killed Mashal Khan, has rejected all allegations against him.In a statement recorded before a judicial magistrate in Mardan, Abdullah said a group of students accused him, Mashal and a third student, Zubair with blasphemy, a charge he rejected,according to Dawn.UN also condemn it and demanded justice for the victim family.

A rights lawyer gunned down in Nankana Sahib

March 30,2017: A lawyer hailing from the Ahmadiya community in the country has been targeted; the fatal attack occurred in Nankana Sahib. Advocate Malik Saleem Latif, who is a rights defender was gunned down by the unknown attackers on March 30,2017. The deceased was riding a bike while son was driving the bike. Advocate Latif was on his way to the Nankana Sahib District Courts, when the attackers interceded and opened fire at him.In line with details, Advocate Malik Saleem Latif was a leader of the Ahmadiyya community. His son also sustained injuries as a result of the firing, however of minor nature. A banned outfit in a statement said that Advocate Malik Saleem Latif had been targeted: “for spreading Ahmadi beliefs in the region”.The same group has also been threatening to kill prominent Christian lawyer Advocate Sardar Mushtaq Gill who heads LEAD. The Christian lawyer had survived a similar attack, and was left with no other option but to leave the country.

A Christian man was burnt by Muslims on love affair with Muslim girl

The incident happened earlier this month of April 2017 and FIR has also been lodged against the father and brothers of the woman, who were reportedly against the friendship between the two and allegedly tortured 21-year-old Ansar Masih.According to FIR complained by his sister in Sheikhupura's Saddar police station, Nisar established contact with the woman two years ago and their friendship grew with time.On April 1, Ansar's mother sent him to run an errand in the woman's neighborhood where Ansar was allegedly kidnapped by the father and her two brothers, adding the three unclothed him, beat him and burned him using hot iron rods.

Prayer Request For Victims of Blasphemy Laws

Christians are living throughout the country in constant fear and as treated second-class citizens. Religious persecution and sectarian violence is on the increase against them and Christians are the main target of Islamic Extremists. The country’s draconian and inhumane blasphemy law and other discriminatory laws are being used to intimidate, harass and persecute Christians. Unfortunately, the blasphemy laws has become a powerful tool in the hands of the Islamic extremists and are continually being misused to attack churches and burn down Christian towns and villages and also kill and burn alive innocent Christians without giving them a chance to prove themselves innocence. Sadly, the government has still failed to take measures to stop misuse of inhumane blasphemy laws against Christians and other religious minorities. LEAD is among the organizations that are campaigning to repeal this controversial law or at least bring about appropriate changes to stop its misuse but our voice be ignored by Pakistani Authority. Please pray for blasphemy victims Asia Bibi and Nabeel Masih and all for those who are suffering under blasphemy laws and also Pray for us because some extremists are intimidating us to involve in blasphemy laws.

Aqeel Masih,a Christian man had arms chopped off 'after refusing to convert to Islam'.

Sardar Mushtaq Gill,human rights defender,who heads LEAD met with Aqeel Masih, a Christian man had arms chopped off 'after refusing to convert to Islam'.Aqeel told that some high profile Christian Politician instructed him to avoid to say that his arms were chopped off 'after refusing to convert Islam' with the promise of his arms be arranged as artificial,when Mr.Gill asked what is the truth.Aqeel said he was asked by perpetrators to accept Islam on his refusal they laid him on railways track and cut his one arm with hatchet then he was fainted.The circumstances shows no evidence of train accident.

LEAD's lawyers team is striving for justice for the Christian couple burned alive.

Sardar Mushtaq Gill,human rights defender along legal heirs victim family of Shahzad and Shama,a Christian couple burned alive after a false charge of blasphemy,at ATC Lahore during trial hearing on May 21,2016.The eye witnesses were also being threatened by the accused that are in custody within the court premises and from their relatives. On 13 May, Mr.Gill along with eye witnesses were standing at the Court main gate and waiting for vehicle which was parked on the road side. In the meanwhile two motor cyclists came near them and threatened them and fled away. On 21 May Mr.Gill submitted an application regarding protection and security and gave in knowledge of the Court about the threats to Mr.Gill too and requested in the application to conclude the trial as early as possible keeping in mind the sensitivity of the case.“The Islamic blasphemy laws are inhuman and demonic which have taken hundreds lives of innocent persons and destroyed many homes and Churches of Christians in Pakistan. It is the law under which many innocent Christians including Asia Bibi, Sawan Masih and Sajjad Masih are suffering in jails and a Christian couple, Shahzad and Shama, was burned alive in a false allegation of burning Quranic pages in 2014. It should not be on books and immediately should be repealed for peaceful and tranquil society where everyone can enjoy freedom of religion and right of protection of life and property”, Sardar Mushtaq Gill, Human Rights Defender and Head of LEAD. Please pray for victims of inhuman and demonic blasphemy law and their family members and LEAD.Later on 23 November 2016, an anti-terrorism court (ATC) Judge Choudhary Muhammad Azam sentenced five people to death on Wednesday 23 November 2016 over the killing of a Christian couple who were lynched and burned alive in a kiln after being falsely accused of blasphemy. The total 106 people had been charged in the case and three were released on bail identified as Muhammad Yousaf,brick kiln owner,Tajamal Hussain and Muhammad Hanif and the court had acquitted 90, including those who were on bails.The five people awarded the death sentence were involved in dragging, beating and burning the couple indentified as Mehdi Khan, Riaz Kambo, Irfan Shakoor, Muhammad Hanif, and Hafiz Ishtiaq while the other eight played a supportive role according to the judgement, others have also been charged with involvement in the lynching and sentenced to two years each in prison and those eight men were identified as Muhammad Hussain, Noorul Hasan, Muhammad Arsalan, Muhammad Haris, Muhammad Muneer, Muhammad Ramazan, Irfan and Hafiz Shahid.

Nabila Bibi,forced conversion to Islam and marriage and her parents with LEAD's activists.

A Christian girl, Nabila Bibi, kidnapped and raped by Muslims later she was forcibly converted to Islam and forcibly got married with one of her Muslim kidnapper .Her family turned to LEAD and requested for assistance. LEAD’s fact finding mission consisting of Intzar Gill, Qaser Younas, girl’s fiancé, Sajid Masih and father of the girl went to the given home address of Muslim man, who kidnapped her, namely Allah Rakha. When they met Allaha Rakha and with other fifteen to twenty Muslims men of the village, they asked them that they wanted to meet with Nabila Bibi. They flatly refused and warned that she was now Muslim and threatened them with dire consequences if they would not leave their village and try to come again but they insisted to meet her, then the Muslims men captured them and made them hostage in a Haveli.LEAD filed a writ petition in Pattoki Court on behalf of father of the victim against the kidnappers and Muslim cleric who issued the certificate of conversion to Islam and marriage certificate. The court accepted the petition to the extent of kidnappers. On 24 March,2016,she has safely reunited with her parents. Intzar Gill and Qaser Younas, LEAD's activists, handed over her to her parents and dropped her at her home after successful rescue mission. She told her agony how she was kidnapped, raped and converted to Islam and later given in marriage of one of her Muslim kidnapper. Bashir Masih, father of the victim girl, was also forced and threatened by Muslims to give Affidavit that he would not register criminal case FIR against those culprits. Bashir Masih, her father, Sardar Mushtaq Gill, Human Rights Defender and other members of LEAD have been threatened to be killed and also threatened to be involved in blasphemy and apostasy charges if the victim girl would reconvert to Christianity. Sajid Masih, fiancé of the victim girl, is the brother in law of Martha Bibi, who was accused of blasphemy and later declared absconder by the court and she belongs to the same village where this victim girl and her family is residing. The culprits and Muslim cleric also extended life threats to Mr. Gill and his team including the threats have been extended to involve in the case of blasphemy as the village Kotnanak Singh falsely accused Martha Bibi. The threats still continue because the girl now staying in hiding with her family as a Christian.

Sardar Mushtaq Gill,HRD Lawyer,was threatened on Mumtaz Qadri's hanging day

Extremist Islamic group Fedane Khatm-e-Nubuwwat, Chunian,Kasur along with others religious extremists groups chanted slogans against the execution of Mumtaz Qadri during a rally in Lahore on Jan. 25, 2016 and after the hanging of the killer,the extremists supporters of Qadri threatened Sardar Mushtaq Gill,human rights defender, during a rally in Bhai Pheru early morning on Monday,29 February ,2016.They also used threatening slogans against Mr.Gill who is also critic of blasphemy laws. Qadri was hailed as hero of Islam by all religious Islamic groups.Blasphemy is a highly controversial issue in Pakistan, and angry mobs have killed many people accused of insulting Islam in the Muslim-majority country. The law does not define blasphemy but stipulates that the penalty is death.Islamic groups also issued a decree (Alamia) that anyone who support blasphemy accused in any way would be considered blasphemer and be punished.The purpose of this Alamia is to terrify victims of human rights violations and their supporters.On 4th January 2017,Sardar Mushtaq Gill,HRD Lawyer,was threatened to be killed via face-book by one of members of Mumtaz Hussain Qadri supporters namely Ali Khan whose face-book profile shows he is from Karachi,threats were in roman Urdu (Bachh...beta ab teri bhi bari ane wali hai....... Mumtaz Qadri hai Ek or yahan).

A volunteer field coordinator of LEAD survives an assassination attempt

Aslam Masih ,volunteer field coordinator of the Legal Evangelical Association Development (LEAD), was shot in the Lahore area on Wednesday ,October 28,2015.The shooting took place Wednesday ,October 28,2015 at about 10:00 PM ,when volunteer field coordinator of LEAD was attacked by a Muslim man Ashfaq alias Shaka along with his three unidentified companions who are said to have shot him with a pistol and thought him dead then fled away.He sustained two bullets wound to his both left and right legs and was rushed to General Hospital Lahore, where he was admitted and operated on to remove the bullets and still one bullet was unable to remove from.He was attacked due to his voice for Christian community and affiliation with LEAD as a field coordinator.Sardar Mushtaq Gill,Human Rights Defender said that despite of life threats and attacks against us the human rights work will be continued for victims.

Two survivor girls victims of Human trafficking

Two survivor sisters of human trafficking-they were to a place where their bodies were used daily by men they have lost count of; where they were sometimes refused an hour of rest, let alone a day off during her period;they become ill and where they received death threats and was threatened with having theirs legs broken if they escaped and threatened with uploading their naked photos and videos on internet. "We were never by ourselves because [one man ] always picked us up and always dropped us off," one victim said. She further added the work started at 09:00 in the morning but we had to be there before that to get ready.

Ashiq Masih,husband of Asia Bibi,in meeting with Sardar Mushtaq Gill HRD lawyer

Asia Bibi's father desires visit to see her in prison and request Mr.Sardar Mushtaq Gill,HRD Lawyer

On 24 July,2015:Asia Bibi's father Mr.Soran Masih 85 years old and her sister Rehana Bibi show their desire to visit her in prison and request to Mr.Sardar Mushtaq Gill, HRD Christian Lawyer, to assist them how to be possible to visit her because they are too poor to go and see her in Multan prison.He says that Children are very dear to birds too.Home Department of Punjab ( Prison ) has put restrictions on visitation of Asia Bibi in prison for Human Rights Defenders,Journalists and other relatives,they are not allowed to visit her without taking prior especial permissions from Home Department Punjab.Only Asia Bibi’s husband and her daughters are allowed to visit her twice a month.Mr.Soran Masih is real father of Asia Bibi who has not visited and seen her daughter since her death conviction.Bibi was convicted of blasphemy in November 2010 for telling fellow workers on a berry farm, “Our Christ sacrificed His life on the cross for our sins,” and “Our Christ is alive.” Last year on 16 October,2014 her appeal against desth sentenced was dismissed from Lahore High Court.On 22 July,2015, she was granted leave to appeal her death sentence by the Supreme Court of Pakistan in Lahore. Her father said he fears that she will not be safe even after her acquittal as extremist cleric has put bounty on her head.The life of those who speak in favour of victims of blasphemy laws is in danger.

Sardar Mushtaq Gill,Human Rights Lawyer along with raped victims at Trial Court Jaranwala

Today 30 May,2015:Sardar Mushtaq Gill,Human Rights Defender and Advocate High Court has been in Jaranwala to appear and represent victims for recording evidences in the case of Gangrapped victims Christian girls(Farzana and Sehrish) in the trial court Jaranwala.The evidences were recorded because in this case Lahore High Court has given direction to the trial court to conclude trial before 9June and report should be sent regarding the progress in the case.In this case life threats were continuously being extended to witnesses,Complainant,Victims and Mr.Gill from the accused.

Sardar Mushtaq Gill,human rights defender visited Dhoop Sari in Lahore’s Sandha area of Lahore

Sardar Mushtaq Gill,Human Rights Defender along with LEAD's legal team and petitioner of FIA case.

After a huge numbers of Christians moving from Pakistan and seeking asylum in different countries.Government of Pakistan through FIA put restrictions at Pak airports on Christians travelling.One Christian man along with his sister wanted to visit Sri Lanka after getting proper tourist visa.They both were stopped twice at Lahore Airport illegally and unlawfully by FIA.On 1 June 2015 constitutional writ petition was filed against FIA on infringing the fundamental rights of liberty and freedom of movement.On 9 June,there was hearing in Lahore High Court,Lahore.The petition was accepted and the court ordered to FIA that they would not stop and harrass them and create any illegal and unlawful hindrance in travelling.

TERROR AND HARASSMENT BY BRICK KILN OWNERs:A Christian woman beaten and tortured

"I have been beaten and badly tortured because some other workers of the brick kiln's owner were run away and those are our relatives and my son also took a loan of Rs.70,000 from the brick kiln owner who also run away and they forced me to call them and to bring them back, when my husband asked the brick kiln owner that we will pay the debt loan, they demanded back with interest of Rs.3,00,000/-.they broke my nails of feet with pliers and I borne bitter pain, and I called my son and my son told the kiln owner about the other our relatives, then the kiln owner along with his men brought them back and beaten and hit them all.I have marks of hitting on my whole body" Bibi told Gill.

Non-implementation of the job five percent job quota for minorities

A representative of the Christian community, Shoaib Ashraf, petitioned in Lahore high through LEAD's lawyers that Wildlife and Parks Punjab advertised some lower posts but did not implement 5 percent seats to religious minorities. Under the law all government departments were bound to implement quota set for religious minorities while making appointments.Advocate Sardar Mushtaq Gill,Human Rights Defender, said,"minorities who initially welcomed the measure are deeply disappointed over non-implementation of the job five percent job quota for minorities. He said the beneficiaries of the job quota were 'not just more than a drop in the ocean' because of religious prejudice and discrimination

Human Rights lawyer Rashid Rehman Khan was gunned down by unidentified attackers in Multan

Sardar Mushtaq Gill ,human rights defender,strongly condemned the killing of rights lawyer Rashid Rehman Khan amd demanded security for human rights defenders accross Pakistan and also brought to justice the Killers of rights lawyer. Reportedly two clean-shaven young men barged into Advocate Khan's office and shot him dead. They also injured his two lawyer friends, identified as Nadeem Parwaz and Afzal.“Armed gunmen stormed the chamber of Rashid Rehman and started indiscriminate firing on Wednesday 7 May,2014 , injuring Rehman and two of his associates present there,” according to senior police official Zulfiqar Ali.Advocate Rashid Rehman Khan was a coordinator for the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP). The senior lawyer was defending a university lecturer accused of blasphemy and had complained that he had been receiving threats on his life.The HRCP had voiced serious concern over the threats extended to Khan.The Supreme Court advocate had submitted an application with the District Bar Association president Sher Zaman Qureshi last month, saying he was threatened by two lawyers and two other persons who asked him not to appear in the case he was representing.Rehman was representing Junaid Hafeez, a lecturer at Bahauddin Zakariya University.Hafeez was known for his liberal views at the university and the case of blasphemy was registered after pressure from right-wing student groups, said a student, who wished not to be named.

Sardar Mushtaq Gill,HRD and Chief of LEAD

Sardar Mushtaq Gill, HRD Advocate High Court and Head of LEAD and Mukhtar Masih, Father of Shama and Father-in-law of Shahzad , the Christian Couple who was burned alive after a false allegation of Blasphemy which was the latest example of mob violence against Christian accused of blasphemy in meeting for discussion to resolve the disputed matter of the guardianship and custody of minors of the couple among the both side the paternal and maternal extended family members of the martyred couple which was pending in Guardian Court Lahore.

The Local court sentenced life imprisonment to Sajjad Masih Gill on blasphemy charges.

July 2013:Sajjad Masih Gill, a 28-year-old Christian, residing in the district of Pakpatan, in the province of Punjab, was sentenced to life imprisonment and a fine of 200 thousand rupees by a court of first instance in Gojra . The ruling was issued on 13 July. Gill, a member of the 'Seventh Day Adventist' Christian community, had been indicted for blasphemy by some Muslim religious leaders and other influential people for sending an SMS from mobile phone with blasphemous content.Prosecutors claimed that the young woman, Roma Masih, had broken off a marriage engagement with Sajjad Masih, and that in vengeance he had used a mobile phone SIM card purchased in her name to send blasphemous messages and in this way he wanted to get her punished in blasphemy whose punishment is death. She was declared innocent during invedtigation and has since reportedly gone to the United Kingdom.He is languishing in jail and waiting for his release.It is expected he will be acquitted in appeal due to insufficient incriminating material avaiable on record against him.

Gazala Khan blasphemy co-accused of blasphemy accused Zafar:Blasphemy victims via mobile sim sms

In this photo,Gazala Khan is telling that she is co-accused with Pastor Zafar Bhatti ,who is behind the bars,and she was released on bail because in invedtigation proved that derogatory sms sent via sim phone number which is registered on her name used by Padtor Zafar Bhatti.Sajjad Masih Gill was also arrested in blasphemy case committed via mobile phone sms through the mobile sim number registered on his ex-lover's name and according to police investigation,Sajjad wanted to get punished her ex-lover who got married with one another Christian man.The shocking thing is that in these two different cases of blasphemy,the co-accused are Christians women who were tried to be victimised at the hands of their own community members.This is the main reason for which LEAD is advocating for repeal of these draconian laws which could be easily misused against his opponents.

Salmaan Taseer assassinated

Salmaan Taseer,ex-Governor Punjab,during his governorship, he emerged as an outspoken critic of the Pakistan's blasphemy laws and consequently called for the pardon for Asia Bibi.On 4 January 2011, he was assassinated at the Kohsar Market in Islamabadby his bodyguard,who has been identified as Malik Mumtaz Hussain Qadri and who disagreed with Taseer's opposition to Pakistan's blasphemy law and accused him as a blasphemer.On Monday,29 February ,2016,the killer Mumtaz Qadri was hanged to death.

Christian minister Shahbaz Bhatti shot dead in Islamabad

March 2,2011,Shahbaz Bhatti,a Christian Minister,was assassinated.He was on his way to work in Islamabad when unknown gunmen riddled his car with bullets.He was murdered in broad daylight because of his demand for change to the blasphemy laws – the root cause of Christians and other religious minorities suffering in Pakistan.He was a Pakistani politician and elected member of the National Assembly from 2008. He was the first Federal Minister for Minorities Affairs from November 2008 until his assassination on 2 March 2011 in Islamabad. Bhatti, a Roman Catholic, was an outspoken critic of Pakistan's blasphemy laws and the only Christian in the Cabinet.Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan claimed responsibility for his killing and called him a blasphemer of Muhammad.Shahbaz Bhatti’s death will not stop the struggle for blasphemy reform.

Discipleship, Church Planting, Pastor Care, Women Empowerment; Freedom Bonded Labor, Persecution

Thursday, 12 November 2026

Church Planting and Gospel Outreach Among Brick-Kiln Bonded Labour Families in Pakistan

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