Pakistan: Nabeel Masih, the youngest ever blasphemy convict in Pakistan, has endured years of unjust imprisonment and persecution. Despite his release on bail, his suffering continues—this time due to painful lipomas that require urgent medical treatment. The British Asian Christian Association (BACA) has long supported Nabeel, from his legal battles to his rehabilitation, and now we must step in again to help him get the surgery he desperately needs.

Meanwhile, his legal fight is ongoing. The court has recorded statements from key witnesses, and cross-examination will soon commence. With mounting legal and medical costs, Nabeel needs our support more than ever.

Nabeel Masih, a 24-year-old Christian man, has endured unimaginable suffering since his wrongful imprisonment at 16 years of age under Pakistan’s harsh blasphemy laws (click here). During his time in jail, he developed large and painful lipomas on his body. Despite repeated requests, he was never provided with medical treatment while in prison.

After his release on bail in March 2021, Nabeel revealed to the British Asian Christian Association (BACA) the severe pain and discomfort he was experiencing due to these growths. BACA immediately arranged for him to be examined at a private medical facility, Farooq Hospital Lahore. Doctors recommended urgent surgery, which was successfully carried out in May 2021 (click here). The operation lasted two hours and provided him with much-needed relief.

Unfortunately, during a recent visit to his safehouse, Nabeel informed BACA that new lipomas have formed on his legs and back, causing him severe discomfort, particularly when he tries to sleep.

“I struggle to sleep peacefully due to the constant discomfort and pain whenever I turn onto my side,” said Nabeel. “I thought I had overcome this affliction, but it has returned, bringing renewed suffering. I sincerely hope BACA can secure the funds needed for surgery to remove these painful lipomas from my body.”

Following this plea, BACA took Nabeel to a nearby hospital where doctors confirmed the need for another surgery. We are now raising funds to cover the cost of his medical treatment and ensure he can live without this constant pain.

Updates on Nabeel’s Trial

Alongside his health struggles, Nabeel continues to fight for justice. His blasphemy trial has been repeatedly delayed due to legal hurdles and court absences.

Recently, on 18th January, the court recorded the statements of three primary witnesses—Akhtar Ali, Basharat Khan, and Muhammad Ramzan. However, statements from police officials are still pending. On 24th January, BACA’s legal team escorted Nabeel and his solicitor, Naseeb Anjum, to court, but the hearing could not proceed as the judge was on leave. The case was then postponed to 8th February 2025.

When the team arrived in Pattoki for the rescheduled hearing, Naseeb Anjum was prepared to cross-examine the witnesses, but once again, proceedings could not take place due to the judge’s absence. The next hearing was set for 1st March.

Frustratingly, on 1st March, another delay occurred when one of the key witnesses failed to appear in court. Judge Naghmana Ansar has now set the next hearing for 15th March.

“It is obviously a delaying tactic the court has played for the last four years,” stated Naseeb Anjum, BACA’s appointed solicitor for Nabeel Masih.

How You Can Help

Nabeel’s repeatedly postponed hearings appear to be a deliberate attempt to deny him justice and prevent the acquittal of a Christian man accused of blasphemy against Islam. We urge you to contact your local MP and ask them to press the UK Foreign Office to intervene with the Pakistani authorities.

Meanwhile, Nabeel continues to suffer both physically and emotionally. He urgently needs surgery to remove the painful lipomas that cause him constant discomfort, and he remains locked in a prolonged legal battle for his freedom.

BACA has stood by Nabeel every step of the way, but we cannot do this alone. Please consider donating to help cover his medical treatment and legal expenses. Your support can bring relief to Nabeel and show him that he is not alone in his fight for justice and dignity.