Sadiqabad, Pakistan- A brutal assault on a Christian sanitation worker in Sadiqabad has once again exposed the deep-rooted discrimination and violence faced by poor and minority workers across Pakistan. The attack—allegedly carried out by influential Muslim individuals—is the latest in a long line of incidents targeting Christian laborers, particularly those working in sanitation and bonded labor roles. 

According to LEAD Ministries Pakistan, a Christian human rights advocacy organization, the victim, a member of the Suthra Punjab cleaning staff, was attacked for allegedly refusing to remove personal debris belonging to an influential local. In retaliation, he was struck on the head with a brick, leaving him seriously injured. The victim was rushed to a nearby hospital where he remains in critical condition. 

The incident triggered an immediate response from the Suthra Punjab sanitation workers, who halted all cleaning operations and launched a peaceful sit-in protest, demanding justice for their injured colleague and accountability for the attackers. 

“This is not an isolated case,” said Pastor Imran Amanat, leader of LEAD Ministries Pakistan. “Across Pakistan, poor Christian workers—especially those employed as sanitation staff or in bonded labor—face constant humiliation, violence, and threats from powerful landlords, politicians, and elites.” 

Christian workers in Pakistan are often assigned the most dangerous and degrading jobs, such as cleaning sewage and garbage, because of religious and social discrimination. Despite being essential to public health and sanitation, they are routinely subjected to verbal abuse, threats, and physical violence, especially when they refuse to perform tasks considered ‘demeaning’ or outside of their duties. 

Many of these laborers, like those working with Suthra Punjab, are underpaid and lack any form of job security or legal protection. In rural towns and cities like Sadiqabad, these workers—mostly from Christian backgrounds—face institutional neglect and religious prejudice, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation and violence with little or no legal recourse. 

“Our community has been cleaning this city for generations,” said one protesting worker. “But we are treated like we are less than human. When we speak up, we are silenced with threats or violence.” 

Following the protest, police in Sadiqabad confirmed that FIR No. 1132/25 has been registered at City Police Station Sadiqabad, and that an investigation has been initiated. Law enforcement officials assured the workers and rights groups that legal action will be taken against those found responsible. However, LEAD Ministries and other rights groups have expressed concern over delays in justice and the influence of powerful individuals that may obstruct the legal process. 

“Christians in Pakistan must be protected from all forms of violence and discrimination,” said Sardar Mushtaq Gill, Founder of LEAD Ministries Pakistan. “Our community has suffered for too long. It is time for the government to take bold, meaningful action to ensure their safety, dignity, and equal rights.” 

“The Constitution of Pakistan guarantees equal rights to all citizens,” added Pastor Imran Amanat. “But these guarantees are meaningless unless they are enforced. The Christian community is not asking for special treatment—we are demanding equal protection under the law.” 

The Suthra Punjab protestors have vowed not to return to work until justice is delivered. Their peaceful demonstration stands as a powerful statement against the abuse of religious minorities and the impunity often enjoyed by influential perpetrators. 

As Pakistan grapples with ongoing human rights challenges, incidents like this underscore the urgent need for legal reform, accountability, and social change to protect its most vulnerable citizens—regardless of faith or class.