A Christian Family's Tears, A Nation’s Responsibility: LEAD Ministries Calls for Urgent Government Action and International Support Following Heartbreaking Suicide Attempt in Sheikhupura

LEAD Ministries has raised an urgent humanitarian appeal over the financial crisis facing Mehboob Masih’s Christian family in Sheikhupura, Pakistan, following reports that he attempted suicide amid overwhelming debt, severe economic hardship, and alleged harassment by loan recovery personnel. The organization calls upon the Government of Pakistan to address poverty, ensure equitable distribution of national resources, promote fair representation of Christians in government employment, and provide equal economic opportunities for religious minorities. LEAD Ministries also appeals to national and international churches, humanitarian organizations, Christian institutions, philanthropists, and people of goodwill to support vulnerable Christian families through immediate humanitarian assistance and sustainable economic empowerment.

By Sardar Mushtaq Gill | Human Rights Defender & Lawyer | Founder & International Advocacy Director, LEAD Ministries

Sheikhupura, Pakistan: LEAD Ministries has expressed grave concern over the situation of Mehboob Masih, a hardworking young Christian man who reportedly attempted suicide amid mounting debt, financial pressure, and alleged harassment by loan recovery personnel.

According to information provided by the family, Mehboob Masih had been struggling to meet loan repayments amid increasingly difficult economic circumstances. The family alleges that individuals visiting to collect installments behaved abusively, used insulting language, and subjected him to harassment, further worsening his emotional distress.

The family is now reportedly facing severe financial difficulties and struggling to meet even the basic needs of its children. Despite approaching various forums and several local pastors for assistance, the family says it has yet to receive meaningful humanitarian support.

This distressing incident highlights the wider economic challenges confronting vulnerable Christian families in Pakistan, particularly those lacking stable employment, financial resources, and opportunities for sustainable livelihoods.

Government Urged to Ensure Economic Justice and Equal Opportunities

Reacting to the situation, Sardar Mushtaq Gill, Human Rights Defender and Lawyer, and Founder and International Advocacy Director of LEAD Ministries, called upon the Government of Pakistan to take practical measures to address poverty, economic exclusion, and unequal opportunities among religious minorities.

He emphasized that Christians are equal citizens of Pakistan and deserve equal rights, fair representation, equitable access to national resources, and meaningful participation in government employment and public institutions.

LEAD Ministries urged federal and provincial governments to:

1. Strengthen transparent recruitment policies and ensure equal access to government employment.
2. Promote meaningful representation of Christians and other religious minorities in public institutions.
3. Ensure equitable distribution of national resources and development opportunities.
4. Introduce economic empowerment programs for disadvantaged Christian families.
5. Facilitate access to interest-free loans and responsible financial services.
6. Support small businesses and entrepreneurship among religious minorities.
7. Establish effective social protection mechanisms for families facing extreme poverty and financial distress.

Gill also stressed the importance of creating an inclusive, supportive, and business-friendly environment within Pakistan’s Muslim-majority society, where Christians can establish businesses, operate shops, and pursue entrepreneurship without discrimination, intimidation, or unnecessary administrative barriers.

He maintained that economic independence is essential to protecting human dignity and helping marginalized communities overcome poverty.

Appeal to National and International Churches and Humanitarian Organizations

LEAD Ministries has made a heartfelt appeal to national and international churches, Christian organizations, humanitarian agencies, charitable foundations, philanthropists, and people of goodwill to support poverty-stricken and marginalized Christian communities throughout Pakistan.

The organization emphasizes that vulnerable Christian families need more than expressions of sympathy; they require coordinated humanitarian assistance and sustainable development initiatives.

LEAD Ministries encourages churches and humanitarian institutions to support:

1. Emergency humanitarian assistance: Food, financial support, clothing, and shelter for families facing extreme hardship.
2. Educational assistance: School fees, books, uniforms, and educational opportunities for disadvantaged children.
3. Debt-relief support: Assistance for families struggling with overwhelming debt and access to fair financial services.
4. Small-business empowerment: Interest-free funding and business opportunities to establish sustainable sources of income.
5. Vocational training: Skills development and employment opportunities for Christian youth.
6. Legal assistance: Protection for vulnerable borrowers facing alleged abusive debt-recovery practices.
7. Sustainable livelihood projects: Long-term initiatives that enable families to become financially independent.

The organization believes that Christian solidarity must go beyond words and be demonstrated through compassion, generosity, and practical action.

Urgent Humanitarian Appeal for Mehboob Masih’s Family

Drawing attention to the immediate needs of Mehboob Masih’s family, LEAD Ministries appeals to compassionate individuals, churches, social leaders, Christian organizations, and charitable institutions to provide whatever assistance they can.

The family urgently needs support to provide food for its children, address its financial difficulties, manage outstanding debts, and rebuild a stable and dignified life.

LEAD Ministries also urges the relevant authorities to investigate the family’s allegations concerning the conduct of loan recovery personnel and ensure that borrowers are treated respectfully and protected against intimidation, humiliation, and unlawful harassment.

The organization further emphasizes the importance of accessible mental health support and compassionate intervention for individuals experiencing severe emotional distress because of financial difficulties.

Sardar Mushtaq Gill: “No Family Should Be Left Alone in Its Darkest Moments”

Sardar Mushtaq Gill stated: “Christians are equal citizens of Pakistan. They deserve equal rights, equal opportunities, fair access to national resources, and meaningful participation in every sector of national life. Economic exclusion and poverty must not become permanent barriers preventing our communities from living with dignity and contributing to society.

“We strongly urge the Government of Pakistan to ensure meaningful inclusion of Christians in government employment, promote equitable resource distribution, and create an environment where members of religious minorities can establish businesses, become entrepreneurs, and earn their livelihoods without discrimination.

“We also appeal to national and international churches, Christian organizations, humanitarian agencies, charitable foundations, and philanthropists to support the poverty-stricken and most vulnerable Christian families in Pakistan. Our responsibility should not end with expressing sympathy. We must take practical steps to provide relief, create opportunities, and restore hope.

“The heartbreaking situation of Mehboob Masih’s family deserves immediate attention. We must stand alongside this family and others facing similar hardships so that no one feels abandoned in their darkest moments.

“True Christian solidarity is demonstrated through compassion, service, and practical support for those who are struggling.”

A Collective Responsibility to Protect Human Dignity and Build Economic Independence

LEAD Ministries maintains that protecting religious minorities must extend beyond constitutional guarantees and freedom of religion. It must include economic justice, equal employment opportunities, fair access to national resources, social protection, and the right to earn a livelihood with dignity.

The organization calls upon the Government of Pakistan, national and international churches, humanitarian institutions, civil society organizations, and the international Christian community to work collectively to address poverty and strengthen the economic position of vulnerable Christian families.

LEAD Ministries remains committed to advocating for the rights, dignity, equality, and economic empowerment of marginalized Christian communities and urges all stakeholders to turn solidarity into meaningful action.

Poverty should never destroy hope, religious identity should never restrict opportunity, and no family should be left to face hardship alone. Every human life matter, every family deserves dignity, and every citizen deserves equality, protection, and the opportunity to build a secure and prosperous future.

Sardar Mushtaq Gill Welcomes UN Committee’s Focus on Bonded Labour in Pakistan, Calls for International Investigation into Brick Kiln Workers’ Health and Living Conditions

Sardar Mushtaq Gill, Human Rights Defender and Lawyer, Founder and International Advocacy Director of LEAD Ministries, welcomes the United Nations Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights' attention to bonded labour in Pakistan and calls for an independent international investigation into the health, life expectancy, working conditions and living standards of brick kiln workers and their families. He also pays tribute to human rights defenders, organisations and individuals working to secure the freedom, rehabilitation, education, empowerment and dignity of bonded labourers.

The Committee concluded its review on 4 November 2026, raising questions about bonded labour and other economic, social and cultural rights concerns in Pakistan.

By Sardar Mushtaq Gill | Human Rights Defender & Lawyer | Founder & International Advocacy Director, LEAD Ministries

Geneva/Islamabad: Sardar Mushtaq Gill, Human Rights Defender and Lawyer, Founder and International Advocacy Director of LEAD Ministries, has welcomed the attention given to bonded labour in Pakistan by the United Nations Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights during its review of Pakistan’s second periodic report under the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.

Gill described the Committee’s attention to this issue as an important and timely step towards exposing the continuing exploitation of vulnerable workers, particularly Christian families who constitute a significant proportion of those trapped in Pakistan’s brick kiln industry.

He expressed serious concern over the harsh and inhumane conditions endured by bonded labourers, many of whom work long hours for extremely low wages that are insufficient to meet even their families’ basic food and nutritional needs. Despite their exhausting labour, countless workers remain trapped in poverty, debt and exploitation, with little opportunity to secure a dignified life.

He also highlighted the plight of children who accompany their parents to brick kilns and grow up amid hardship, deprivation and exploitation. Instead of attending school and enjoying their childhood, many are exposed to hazardous working environments and denied access to education. Consequently, poverty and illiteracy continue to pass from one generation to the next, perpetuating a devastating cycle of generational slavery.

“Bonded labour is not merely an issue of poverty; it is a serious violation of human dignity, fundamental freedoms and human rights. No family should be forced to live in slavery because of debt, poverty, religion or social circumstances. Children deserve classrooms, not brick kilns, and every worker deserves fair wages, safe working conditions and the freedom to live with dignity,” Gill stated.

Urgent Appeal for an International Investigation into Brick Kiln Workers’ Health and Life Expectancy

Gill made an urgent appeal to international institutions, particularly the United Nations Office at Geneva, UN human rights mechanisms, the World Health Organization (WHO), the International Labour Organization (ILO) and relevant international research institutions, to initiate an independent, comprehensive and scientifically grounded investigation into the living conditions, health status, disease burden and life expectancy of brick kiln workers and their families in Pakistan.

He stressed the importance of determining whether brick kiln workers experience a lower average life expectancy than the general population because of prolonged exposure to hazardous working environments, air pollution, extreme temperatures, malnutrition, inadequate healthcare and exhausting physical labour.

He further called for particular attention to their vulnerability to respiratory diseases, chronic illnesses, skin conditions, musculoskeletal disorders and other occupational health problems. Existing scientific research has documented serious health concerns among Pakistani brick kiln workers, underlining the need for more extensive investigations.

The proposed study, he emphasised, should examine premature deaths, long-term occupational diseases and the particular impact of these conditions on women and children.

“The world must know how long these workers live, what diseases they suffer from, how frequently they become victims of preventable illnesses, and how many years of their lives are lost to exploitation, poverty and hazardous working conditions.

“I urgently appeal to the United Nations and international research institutions to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the average life expectancy, mortality rates, disease patterns and healthcare conditions of brick kiln workers and compare these findings with those of the wider Pakistani population.

“These workers must not remain invisible in national and international health statistics. Their suffering deserves serious scientific investigation, international attention and practical action. We cannot continue to ignore the health and lives of people who spend their entire lives working in dangerous conditions simply to provide food for their families,” Gill stated.

He urged international institutions to ensure that the proposed investigation includes independent field visits, medical examinations, interviews with workers and their families, occupational health assessments, and research into child labour, malnutrition, maternal health and access to medical facilities.

Appreciation for Human Rights Defenders and Organisations Working to End Bonded Labour

Gill expressed his heartfelt appreciation to human rights defenders, civil society organisations, activists, humanitarian workers and individuals who are working tirelessly to identify, support and secure the release of bonded labourers from brick kilns.

He acknowledged the dedication and sacrifices of those who visit brick kiln communities, raise the voices of affected families, provide legal assistance and work towards securing freedom for people trapped in forced and bonded labour.

He particularly appreciated those whose efforts extend beyond securing the release of bonded labourers to include rehabilitation, education, healthcare, empowerment, economic independence and sustainable development.

Gill emphasised that rescuing families from bonded labour is an essential humanitarian achievement, but freedom must be accompanied by meaningful rehabilitation, educational opportunities, healthcare, sustainable livelihoods and long-term protection against further exploitation.

Every effort to liberate a family from bonded labour, he noted, represents an investment in human dignity and an important step towards breaking the cycle of generational slavery.

Call for Government Action and International Accountability

Gill urged the Government of Pakistan to move beyond legislative commitments and take concrete measures to eradicate bonded labour. These measures must include the effective implementation of existing laws, prosecution of those responsible for exploitation, fair wages, comprehensive rehabilitation and free and accessible education for the children of brick kiln workers.

He also called upon the international community and United Nations human rights mechanisms to maintain sustained attention to the situation of bonded labourers in Pakistan and press for effective accountability, institutional reforms and lasting protection for affected communities.

“Ending bonded labour requires more than releasing individual families from brick kilns. It demands a comprehensive approach that addresses poverty, illiteracy, discrimination and economic exploitation. Every released family must receive protection, education, livelihood opportunities and the support necessary to rebuild their lives. Freedom must become permanent, not temporary,” Gill emphasised.

He concluded by welcoming the Committee’s attention to this critical human rights concern and expressing hope that its observations and recommendations would encourage meaningful government action to eradicate bonded labour and protect the rights, dignity, health and future of vulnerable communities in Pakistan.

Gill reiterated that the struggle against bonded labour must not end with discussions, statements or international reviews. It must translate into the freedom of exploited families, the protection of children, access to education and healthcare, and a future in which no human being is forced to sacrifice their dignity, health and life simply to survive.

Pakistan's Blasphemy Laws Cast a Shadow of Fear Over Justice: Even Judges Fear for Their Lives – Sardar Mushtaq Gill

The misuse of blasphemy laws is a serious human rights concern that threatens not only accused individuals but also judges, lawyers, witnesses, and those seeking justice. When even judges fear for their lives while hearing blasphemy-related cases, it exposes a deeply troubling climate of intimidation surrounding judicial proceedings in Pakistan. No law should become an instrument of persecution, personal vendettas, or injustice. The state must protect everyone involved in judicial proceedings and ensure that justice is administered independently, without fear or external pressure.

Blasphemy laws must never become weapons of persecution. Justice must prevail over fear.

By Sardar Mushtaq Gill

Human Rights Defender, Lawyer, Founder and International Advocacy Director, LEAD Ministries

ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN: Sardar Mushtaq Gill, a prominent human rights defender and lawyer, Founder and International Advocacy Director of LEAD Ministries, has expressed grave concern over the alarming remarks made by Islamabad High Court Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan regarding the security threats confronting judges and witnesses involved in blasphemy-related cases in Pakistan.

Gill stated that the judge's observations reveal a deeply disturbing reality: the climate of fear surrounding Pakistan's blasphemy laws has reached a point where even members of the judiciary fear for their lives while performing their constitutional and judicial responsibilities.

He emphasized that when judges themselves feel unsafe hearing sensitive cases, it raises serious questions about judicial independence, the rule of law, and the state's ability to guarantee protection to ordinary citizens facing accusations under blasphemy provisions.

EVEN JUDGES FEAR FOR THEIR LIVES: AN ALARMING REALITY

During a recent hearing before a two-member bench comprising Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan and Justice Khadim Hussain Soomro, the court heard appeals filed by individuals convicted in a blasphemy case and suspended their sentences pending further proceedings.

The most concerning aspect of the proceedings was Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan's candid disclosure of the security threats and fear he had experienced while hearing blasphemy-related matters.

Referring to his experience while hearing the Noor Fatima writ petition concerning a blasphemy case, the judge disclosed that he had feared on a daily basis that someone might enter the courtroom, shoot him, and leave.

He observed that sitting on the bench without fear had become extremely difficult and acknowledged that security concerns were discouraging judges from hearing such sensitive appeals. He further indicated that he would hear these cases alone if circumstances permitted.

The judge also questioned the state's failure to provide adequate security to judges and witnesses, observing that several judges had lost their lives.

In another concerning observation, he reportedly expressed apprehension that speaking openly about these matters could result in another reference being filed against him.

These observations have brought renewed attention to the security challenges surrounding blasphemy-related judicial proceedings in Pakistan.

WHEN FEAR ENTERS THE COURTROOM, JUSTICE SUFFERS

Commenting on the situation, Sardar Mushtaq Gill said that the remarks of a sitting High Court judge should be taken seriously by the government, judicial authorities, and the international human rights community.

According to Gill, the concerns surrounding Pakistan's blasphemy laws extend far beyond individuals accused of blasphemy. Judges, lawyers, witnesses, journalists, human rights defenders, and family members may also face threats, intimidation, and pressure because of their involvement in these cases.

He observed that the possibility of violence and intimidation can create an environment in which individuals become reluctant to perform their professional responsibilities or participate freely in judicial proceedings.

Gill raised a fundamental question:

If a judge fears being shot inside a courtroom for hearing a blasphemy-related case, what protection can an ordinary accused person, a witness, a lawyer, or a human rights defender realistically expect?

He stressed that a judicial system cannot function independently when fear and threats interfere with the administration of justice.

No judge should have to fear assassination for performing judicial duties. No witness should have to risk their life for telling the truth. No lawyer should face intimidation for representing an accused person.

MISUSE OF BLASPHEMY LAWS MUST NEVER BECOME AN INSTRUMENT OF PERSECUTION

Sardar Mushtaq Gill emphasized that the misuse of blasphemy laws is a serious human rights concern requiring urgent attention.

He stated that no law should become an instrument for personal revenge, intimidation, discrimination, or persecution. Allegations must be examined through credible evidence, lawful procedures, and independent judicial scrutiny.

Every accused person must be presumed innocent until proven guilty through a fair judicial process and must be afforded the right to legal representation and due process.

Gill further emphasized that the protection of fundamental rights must not depend on the nature of an accusation, religious identity, social status, or public pressure.

He warned that when allegations are accompanied by threats, intimidation, or mob pressure, the fundamental principles of justice and equality before the law are placed at risk.

The state must ensure that legal proceedings are determined by evidence and law rather than fear, threats, or external influence.

THE STATE MUST NOT SURRENDER JUSTICE TO FEAR

Gill stressed that protecting judges and witnesses is a fundamental responsibility of the state.

The government and relevant security institutions must ensure that judges hearing sensitive cases receive effective protection. Witnesses must be able to testify without intimidation, and accused individuals must have access to fair judicial proceedings.

He also expressed concern over appeals remaining pending for years amid security concerns and pressure, emphasizing that delays in judicial proceedings can have serious consequences for individuals awaiting justice.

The state must not allow threats, intimidation, or fear of violence to determine which cases can be heard and which individuals can obtain justice.

Judicial independence is not merely an institutional privilege; it is a fundamental requirement for protecting the rights of every citizen.

LEAD MINISTRIES CALLS FOR IMMEDIATE ACTION

Sardar Mushtaq Gill called upon the Government of Pakistan, judicial authorities, law enforcement agencies, and international human rights organizations to take the judge's observations seriously.

He urged the authorities to:

1. Provide effective security arrangements for judges hearing blasphemy-related cases.
2. Establish reliable protection mechanisms for witnesses, lawyers, accused individuals, and their families.
3. Investigate threats and acts of intimidation against members of the judiciary.
4. Ensure that pending appeals are heard without unreasonable delays or external pressure.
5. Safeguard judicial independence and guarantee the right to a fair trial for every individual.
6. Take appropriate action against individuals responsible for threats, violence, and intimidation intended to obstruct the administration of justice.
7. Ensure that human rights defenders and lawyers can perform their professional responsibilities without fear of retaliation.

Gill also urged international human rights organizations, United Nations human rights mechanisms, and diplomatic missions to closely monitor the situation and raise concerns about the safety of judges, witnesses, and other individuals involved in blasphemy-related proceedings in Pakistan.

JUSTICE MUST BE STRONGER THAN FEAR

Sardar Mushtaq Gill stated that the remarks of Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan should serve as a serious warning to Pakistan's institutions and the international human rights community.

When judges fear for their lives, witnesses fear speaking the truth, and appeals remain unheard amid intimidation, the entire foundation of the justice system comes under question.

He emphasized that Pakistan cannot uphold the rule of law if those responsible for administering justice are afraid to perform their duties.

Gill reiterated that every human being deserves dignity, protection, equality before the law, and access to justice. No accusation should deprive an individual of these fundamental rights.

He further stressed that the misuse of blasphemy laws must be challenged through lawful and peaceful means, while the fundamental freedoms and judicial rights of all individuals must be protected.

Blasphemy laws must never become weapons of persecution. The misuse of these laws must be challenged, fundamental freedoms must be protected, and every accused person must receive justice through fair and independent judicial proceedings.

A courtroom should be a place where the law speaks without fear, not a place where judges fear for their lives.

Justice must prevail over intimidation. Human dignity must prevail over persecution. And the rule of law must prevail over fear.