By Charles Igwe
Christians in Pakistan are urging Punjab officials to bring to justice those responsible for the brutal attack on Nazir Gill Masih in Sargodha, which resulted in his death. The Catholic Church’s National Commission for Justice and Peace (NCJP) released a report echoing the Pakistan Catholic Bishops’ Conference’s condemnation of the murder and the “persistent misuse of blasphemy laws.” The report demands “swift and impartial justice” to restore faith in the legal system and hold police officials accountable for their inaction.
The NCJP emphasized that no false blasphemy charges should be registered against Christians and called for their protection. The report detailed thorough fact-finding into the events leading up to the false blasphemy accusation against Mr. Masih. It noted that his neighbors allegedly held a grudge against Nazir’s family due to their relative wealth and successful shoe business, fueled by jealousy towards the Christian family.
The NCJP, alongside Archbishop Joseph Arshad, organized peaceful protests across governmental and religious sites in Islamabad and Gujranwala. Members of the Christian community expressed their outrage at the attack and demanded justice for Mr. Masih. The NCJP also provided recommendations for Pakistani authorities to prevent similar incidents in the future, improve law enforcement protocols, and foster interfaith dialogue.
These recommendations included a judicial inquiry to establish accountability for the attack, prompt financial compensation, legal support, and trauma counseling for Mr. Masih’s family. The report also called for the implementation of security measures to protect the Christian community and prevent future false blasphemy charges.
The NCJP concluded by reaffirming their commitment to justice and peace, urging both local and international communities to support efforts in protecting vulnerable populations. Mr. Masih, in his 70s, died on June 3rd in the Combined Military Hospital in Rawalpindi after being beaten by a mob on May 25th. Despite undergoing two surgical procedures, he succumbed to head injuries.
