Qaiser Felix

The annual report by the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan shows that the number of incidents of discrimination and violence against women is increasing, especially against members of religious minorities.

The diocese of Karachi is launching a programme which includes Gospel lessons through learning-by-doing. Children take the Lord’s joy and love to their homes, putting Christ first.

Riaz Gondal, a retired assistant police sub-inspector, shot Muhammad Ashraf point-blank. Ashraf, a member of the Ahmadi community, was accused of trying to convert good Muslims. A spokesman for the minority denounced the lack of government support.

Since December, Mgr Coutts, a Muslim scholar and a renowned journalist have been threatened by extremists who are against their work for social harmony in Pakistan. Mgr Coutts says they will not be intimidated and their mission will continue.

The president of the Bishops’ Conference expressed condolence and condemnation about the murder of Punjab minister Zil-e-Huma Usman, by a religious fanatic. He stressed the need to promote tolerance in mosques and churches and for the government and civil society to work to stop extremism.

Although they have been released by the court, survivors of the blasphemy law remain subject to social isolation and poverty because they are suspected of having offended Islam. Officials force Christians to convert in prison. Those who remain strong in the faith risk death at the hands of extremists.

Martha Bibi, arrested on January 22, is in Kasur district prison. Police has not yet started their investigations whilst her family is still in hiding for fear of attacks by extremists.

Following an altercation, a man who owed money to a Christian woman accuses her of insulting the prophet Muhammad, an offence that also carries the death penalty. She was taken into custody by the police. Minority rights group blames Islamic extremists for using the law to strike at religious minorities or anyone who dare oppose them.

A petition filed by Muslim students tried to stop the construction but the judges rejected it on the grounds that Islam and Pakistan’s constitution guarantee religious freedom and respect for minorities. For Christians the ruling will promote interfaith dialogue.

Shahbaz Masih Kaka is mentally disabled, but a court in Faisalabad sentenced him to 25 years. Pressures from Islamic extremists are to blame.

Shahid Masih, 17, was accused with ripping the pages of a sacred book. After months in solitary confinement, the court releases him for lack of evidence.

The Education Ministry is preparing curriculum reform to remove anti-religious minority biases. Islamist parties are angry; Christian community is appreciative.