Human Rights Report Exposes Rising Honey-Trapping in Blasphemy Cases in Pakistan

PAKISTAN: In the past, women were often exploited to trap innocent individuals in sexual assault cases for blackmail, revenge, and other selfish motives. However, a disturbing new trend is emerging in Pakistan, where Christian youth are increasingly being targeted through honey-trapping schemes. Reports indicate that these young individuals are lured into compromising situations, after which blasphemy laws are manipulated to blackmail and extort them for personal gain. This alarming exploitation of religious laws is being used as a tool for coercion, raising serious concerns about the safety and rights of minority communities in the country.

An Islamist gang in Pakistan is reported to have trapped hundreds of people in false blasphemy cases in recent years, with severe consequences. Human rights lawyers claim that these individuals were ensnared in fabricated accusations and subjected to brutal torture. Tragically, some victims died while being tortured in police custody. This alarming pattern highlights the exploitation of blasphemy laws to target vulnerable groups, especially Christian youth, for blackmail, coercion, and even death. The widespread misuse of these laws raises urgent concerns about the safety and rights of minority communities in Pakistan.

Sardar Mushtaq Gill, in conversation with Javed Gill, Advocate at the High Court and legal advisor to LEAD Ministries, disclosed that many individuals are being forced to renounce their faith under false blasphemy accusations. He further highlighted reports indicating that an Islamist group spreads blasphemous content online, files false charges, and blackmails the accused's families for large sums. According to reports, the Special Branch of the Punjab Police identified an organized gang behind the recent surge in blasphemy cases.

Pakistan has been ranked seventh on Open Doors' 2024 World Watch List, identifying it as one of the most challenging places for Christians to practice their faith freely. Sardar Mushtaq Gill, Founder of LEAD Ministries, has served as an external expert for the World Watch List for the past decade, contributing his expertise to highlight the struggles of religious minorities.

Pastor Imran Amanat, Director of LEAD Ministries, has urged Pakistani authorities to take immediate action to ensure fair trials for all individuals accused of blasphemy. He emphasized that many of these individuals are suffering in jails without proper legal recourse, and it is crucial that they receive a just and transparent process to protect their rights and dignity.

Tragic Attack on Christian Family in Gujranwala: A Call for Justice and Protection

Gujranwala, Pakistan – A wave of grief and outrage has swept through the Christian community in Gujranwala following the brutal murder of 25-year-old Christian man Suleman Masih and the attempted murder of his mother and sister. LEAD Ministries Pakistan has condemned the heinous acts and called for swift justice for the victims, demanding urgent measures for the protection of their families.

The first tragedy unfolded when Suleman Masih, a young Christian man, was brutally murdered by a group of Muslim landlords in a horrifying act of violence. The Masih family had been falsely accused of a crime they did not commit, and their land, which they had been cultivating for years, was forcefully taken from them. Despite enduring immense hardship, the perpetrators were not satisfied with their unjust actions and went on to murder Suleman, a tragedy that has left his family shattered.

In a separate but equally devastating incident, Shabana, a Christian mother, was killed in a targeted attack on January 6, while her daughter Misbah (18) remains in critical condition, fighting for her life in the hospital. The mother and daughter had been employed as domestic workers in Muslim households, and were on their way home from work when they were attacked with gunfire by two unknown assailants. Shabana was killed instantly, while Misbah sustained severe injuries. A case has been filed against the attackers, and local police are investigating the motive behind this horrific act.

Karamat Masih, Shabana’s husband, has called for justice and accountability, voicing his anguish over the senseless loss of his wife and the critical condition of his daughter. The family’s heartbreaking ordeal has drawn widespread attention to the vulnerability of Christian families in the region, many of whom face harassment, discrimination, and violence.

LEAD Ministries Pakistan has strongly condemned these tragic incidents, calling on local authorities to ensure justice is served swiftly and that the perpetrators are held accountable. The organization has also called for greater protection and support for the affected families, emphasizing the need for an end to such attacks on religious minorities. "The victims of these heinous acts deserve justice and the assurance that their families will be safe from further violence," said a representative from LEAD Ministries.

The Ministry has urged both local and national institutions to take immediate action to protect vulnerable communities and prevent further incidents of targeted violence. It also appealed to the public to join in prayer for the strength and comfort of the victims' families during this difficult time.

As investigations into both attacks continue, the Christian community in Gujranwala remains on edge, hoping for justice and for the restoration of peace and safety in their neighborhoods.

Pastor Imran Amanat, Director of LEAD Ministries, has been in constant contact with Iqbal Masih, the father of the late Suleman Masih, offering his support and counseling during this heartbreaking time. Pastor Imran has expressed his deep sorrow over the tragic loss and is providing both emotional and spiritual guidance to the family as they navigate through this immense grief. LEAD Ministries remains committed to standing by the victims and their loved ones, ensuring they receive the necessary care and support during these difficult moments.

Discrimination Against Christians in Pakistani Healthcare Sparks Outrage

 In a troubling incident in Pakistan, reports have emerged of discrimination against Christian patients within the healthcare system. A Muslim doctor allegedly stated that she would not treat patients if she knew they were Christian, igniting widespread outrage and protests among the Christian community.

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Christians in Pakistan, where religious discrimination and intolerance remain pressing issues. Members of the Christian community are speaking out against this form of religious-based discrimination and are calling for justice and accountability.

Farzana Imran, leader of LEAD Ministries Pakistan, condemned the doctor’s statement, emphasizing that such attitudes foster hatred and division within society. "This is not just an attack on individuals but a reflection of a larger problem of intolerance against Christians in our country," she stated.

LEAD Ministries Pakistan is urging authorities to implement positive measures to combat religious hatred and extremism. They are calling for comprehensive training for medical professionals to ensure that all patients, regardless of their faith, receive fair and compassionate care.

As protests continue, the Christian community in Pakistan is determined to stand against discrimination and to seek equality within the healthcare system. They are hopeful that this incident will bring attention to the urgent need for reforms that promote tolerance and respect for all faiths in the country.