A Christian worker narrowly escaped a horrific attack in Bahawalpur, Punjab, emphasizing the dangers and challenges faced by religious minorities in Pakistan. The incident underscores the urgent need for comprehensive protection mechanisms to guard against religiously motivated violence.
On January 21, 2026, Zahid Masih, a married Christian man employed as a bonded laborer and security guard at Brick Kiln No. 2, was attacked by Muhammad Ali Azhar, a fellow worker. The altercation escalated when Azhar, allegedly angered by Masih’s presence, repeatedly hurled derogatory comments at him. The situation quickly deteriorated as Masih confronted the abuse, which led to Azhar pouring petrol on his face and setting him on fire. The assailant’s intent was reportedly to burn Masih alive, but the Christian community’s timely intervention saved him from further harm.
Throughout the confrontation, the attacker allegedly made hateful comments, specifically targeting Masih’s Christian faith, and asserting religious superiority. This shocking assault, which left Masih with physical injuries and severe psychological trauma, has sent shockwaves through the Christian community in Pakistan.
Local authorities swiftly responded to the situation, registering a First Information Report (FIR) at Police Station Cantt, Bahawalpur. Muhammad Ali Azhar was subsequently arrested. However, the gravity of the attack has sparked widespread outrage among religious leaders and human rights advocates alike.
The incident highlights the alarming frequency of discrimination and violence faced by Christian laborers in Pakistan, who often endure harassment and maltreatment due to their religious identity. Zahid Masih’s traumatic experience serves as a stark reminder of the precarious position of religious minorities, particularly in labor-intensive sectors where they are vulnerable to exploitation and abuse.
Human rights organizations have condemned the attack and called for stronger legal measures to protect minority communities. Legal experts emphasize the need for institutional reforms to ensure justice for victims and to curb religious intolerance.
Zahid Masih is currently undergoing medical treatment for his injuries, and his psychological recovery is expected to be a long process. The Christian community has rallied in solidarity, supporting Masih and demanding that justice be served. The public outcry also underscores the broader issue of religious persecution in Pakistan, a problem that continues to affect numerous minority groups across the country.
While authorities have acted decisively in this case, activists and religious leaders continue to stress the importance of sustained efforts to ensure the safety and rights of religious minorities. The incident has drawn attention to the inadequacies of current legal protections and calls for broader social and cultural shifts to combat intolerance and discrimination.
The attack on Zahid Masih is a sobering reminder of the deep-rooted challenges faced by religious minorities in Pakistan. It underscores the need for comprehensive reform to protect vulnerable communities and uphold the fundamental rights to life, liberty, and religious freedom for all citizens, regardless of their faith.