Sheikhupura, Pakistan: In a disturbing incident that underscores the perilous nature of religious intolerance in Pakistan, a 22-year-old Christian waste paper contractor named Waqas Masih was brutally attacked for allegedly touching Islamic materials. This incident took place against the backdrop of growing religious tensions fueled by Islamic extremist ideologies. This act of collecting discarded scrap became the catalyst for a tragic incident.

Waqas, who has been working alongside his father in the paper scrap business for over a year, collected various discarded items from Subhan Allah Paper Mill located in Chak No.16, Sharaqpur Sharif. Among the scrap was a small quantity of torn papers believed to contain Quranic verses, which led to a violent confrontation with a local Muslim man, Zohaib, who had known him for a long time. For a long time, Zohaib had been forcing him to accept Islam. Motivated by the radical agenda of Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), Zohaib confronted Waqas, accusing him of touching and desecrating sacred Quranic texts. He demanded that Waqas convert to Islam, threatening harm to him and his family if he refused.

The situation escalated dramatically on March 21, when Zohaib attacked Waqas with a sharp blade, inflicting severe injuries that cut his throat. The assailant’s actions echoed the disturbing slogan “Sir tan se juda,” indicative of the extremist sentiment that has permeated pockets of society.

Waqas was immediately admitted to a local hospital, where he remains in critical condition, fighting for his life. An FIR under case number 518/25 has been filed at the Sharaqpur Sharif Police Station, initiating an investigation into the brutal attack. Authorities have confirmed the arrest of Zohaib and are examining the underlying factors that led to this act of violence.

In the wake of this incident, LEAD Ministries Pakistan has vehemently condemned the attack, asserting that it represents a grave violation of religious freedom and an assault on the rights of minorities. “No individual should have to live in fear for their beliefs,” the organization stated in a public declaration, emphasizing the urgent need for swift justice to protect Waqas and his family, who now live in constant apprehension.

Pastor Imran Amanat, a prominent leader within LEAD Ministries, called for prayers for Waqas’s recovery and for all those subjected to religious persecution. He stressed the importance of unity among compassionate citizens to confront and challenge intolerance in all its forms.

Sardar Mushtaq Gill, founder of LEAD Ministries, echoed these sentiments, urging local authorities to enhance the safety measures for Waqas and his loved ones. “It is our shared responsibility to ensure that such acts of violence are not tolerated, and the perpetrators are held accountable,” he remarked.

LEAD Ministries Pakistan remains committed to advocating for the rights of religious minorities and raising awareness regarding the ongoing plight of individuals facing persecution due to their beliefs. As this tragic case unfolds, the hope for justice serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing struggle for religious freedom in the country.

By LEAD Ministries Pakistan