Sahiwal: The British Asian Christian Association (BACA) continues to stand alongside vulnerable Christian families in Pakistan who face injustice, intimidation, and violence. One such case is that of Sumaira George, a 14-year-old Christian girl from Chak 82/6R, Sahiwal, whose life was brutally shattered by sexual violence—and whose family has since endured relentless pressure, threats, and fear.

A Brief Background

In November 2025, Sumaira George was abducted while running a simple household errand. She was forcibly taken by associates of her attacker and left unconscious after being repeatedly raped. She was later recovered near her home and taken to District Headquarters Hospital Sahiwal, where medical examinations confirmed sexual assault. Police promptly registered FIR No. 1452/25 under Sections 375 and 376 of the Pakistan Penal Code and arrested the accused, including the principal attacker Muhammad Zohaib.

Despite the seriousness of the crime, the family soon found themselves under intense pressure from influential relatives of the accused, urging them to “compromise” and withdraw the case. Fearing for their safety, Sumaira and her family were forced to flee their home and take refuge with relatives.

BACA Steps In: Safety, Shelter, and Support

On 12th December, a BACA team visited the family and provided emergency financial assistance. Sumaira’s mother, Nasreen Bibi, pleaded for help—not only for survival, but for justice.

Responding swiftly, BACA arranged a safe house, and on 26th December, the family was successfully relocated to a secure location. This support brought immense relief to the family, who had been living in fear.

Sahil Masih, Sumaira’s elder brother, shared:

“I am thankful to BACA for helping us financially and arranging a house for us. Without this support, we had nowhere to go.”

Legal Challenges and Growing Pressure

While some of the accused managed to obtain bail—adding to the family’s distress—the financial condition of Sumaira’s family made it impossible for them to hire competent legal representation.

Recognising the gravity of the case and the risks involved, BACA committed to fully supporting Sumaira’s legal battle and appointed Chaudhary Javaid Sahotra, a prominent Christian lawyer practising at the District and Sessions Court, Sahiwal.

Mr. Sahotra met with Sumaira’s family, listened to their fears, and assured them that every possible legal avenue would be pursued to ensure justice.

Key Legal Developments

5th December: Sumaira George recorded her statement under Section 164 CrPC before the Civil Judge, Sahiwal.

The defence attempted to undermine the case by filing an application to challenge Sumaira’s medical report, falsely claiming it was fabricated.

Mr. Sahotra strongly contested this application, arguing that:

Due legal and medical procedures were followed.

The medical report was issued by a competent government hospital.

Only DNA results—not third-party claims—could challenge medical findings.

Despite repeated delays caused by the absence of the defence, the court recorded Mr. Sahotra’s arguments and scheduled further hearings.

A Landmark Moment: Bail Dismissed

The most significant development came on 17th January, when the principal accused, Muhammad Zohaib, applied for post-arrest bail before the court of the Additional Sessions Judge, Sahiwal.

Mr. Sahotra argued forcefully that bail could not be granted because:

The crime was reported without delay

The survivor had clearly named the attacker in her judicial statement

Police investigations established Zohaib’s involvement

After hearing arguments from both sides, the court dismissed the bail application.

This decision marked a critical step toward accountability in a case where justice so often fails vulnerable minority victims.

A Mother’s Relief, A Family’s Hope

Overwhelmed with emotion, Sumaira’s mother said:

“Justice would have been only a dream for us if BACA had not stepped in. The judge rejected the bail of the rapist. I thank God for hearing my prayers and opening the heart of the court. May God bless BACA and its team.”

Why This Case Matters

This case highlights:

The systemic challenges faced by Christian victims in Pakistan

The importance of legal representation in preventing perpetrators from exploiting loopholes

The life-saving impact of safe housing and emergency financial aid

BACA remains committed to walking with Sumaira George and her family until justice is fully served.

How You Can Help

Cases like Sumaira’s require sustained legal, financial, and emotional support. Your donations enable BACA to:

Provide safe housing for vulnerable families

Fund legal representation for victims seeking justice

Protect families facing threats and intimidation

Stand firmly against forced compromises

Together, we can make a difference and ensure that survivors like Sumaira are not left to fight alone.

Every contribution, no matter the size, helps us defend dignity, safety, and justice.

Juliet Chowdhry, Trustee of the British Asian Christian Association, said:

“The dismissal of bail for Muhammad Zohaib is a historic and powerful moment—not only for Sumaira George, but for every vulnerable Christian family who fears that justice will fail them. When perpetrators are denied bail, it sends a clear message that crimes against minority girls will not be tolerated. By providing a safe house and a dedicated legal advocate, BACA has empowered this family to stand firm in the face of threats and intimidation. Every step toward justice weakens the culture of impunity, and every conviction helps prevent future crimes. This is why our work matters—because justice protects lives.”