College Student Accused of Blasphemy

A smiling Ashbeel Ghauri stands in a doorway.
Ashbeel Ghauri
Photo: Morning Star News

Ashbeel Ghauri was recently arrested following accusations from a former classmate that he had allegedly disrespected Islam during a WhatsApp conversation. According to Ashbeel's father, Babar, the young Christian man had engaged in conversation several times with Sheraz Gulistan and other Muslims who attempted to convert him to Islam. Babar believes that Sheraz implicated Ashbeel after the young man refused to renounce his faith in Christ.

Police arrested the 18-year-old college student at his home in Attock, Punjab, on March 6th. The believer was placed with other blasphemy suspects in a detention centre where he was locked in a small room. There he spent his time in prayer, reading the Bible and fasting. During his detainment, Ashbeel was reassured as he remembered the words of Joshua 1:5, in which God says, "Just as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you or forsake you" (ESV). His family also leaned on God for strength during that difficult time. "It's a crucial time for my family, especially for Ashbeel," his father Babar was able to testify. "But we know God will walk us through this test, and [Ashbeel] will emerge victorious in faith."

Thankfully, during the bail hearing, the magistrate listened to the evidence that was presented and consequently released Ashbeel from custody on March 14th. Surety bonds were paid by a close friend of Babar. The friend, who is a Muslim, has since been threatened for assisting the Christian family. Babar has also expressed concerns about the security of his own family, but says he remains hopeful that Ashbeel will soon be acquitted and granted the freedom to resume his studies.

In Pakistan, threats of violence against those accused of blasphemy are rampant. According to the Centre for Social Justice, which is based in Lahore, seven people were killed through vigilante violence in 2023 because of blasphemy accusations. For more reports concerning our persecuted Christian family in Pakistan, go to our country report.

Praise God that Ashbeel has been released on bail. Pray that all charges against this young man will be dropped. May God's protection rest upon Ashbeel and his family, as well as the friend who provided them financial assistance. Also prayerfully remember the many other Christians in Pakistan who are presently facing imprisonment, violence and even the threat of death because of blasphemy allegations, praying that the Lord would sustain them daily with His strength, wisdom and courage.

  • Current Ministry Projects

    VOMC partners to train Christian women in sewing skills throughout Pakistan to provide a sustainable source of income for their families and encourage them in their faith and witness for Christ.

    Project Funds: Families of Martyrs, Women’s Ministry

  • Country Information

    Population
    247,653,551 (2023 est.)

    Ethnicity (%)
    Punjabi (44.7), Pashtun [Pathan] (15.4), Sindhi (14.1), Saraiki (8.4) Muhajirs (7.6) Balochi (3.6), Other (6.3)

    Religion (%)
    Islam (96.5), Other - Christian and Hindu (3.5)

    Leader
    President Asif Ali Zardari (2024)

    Government type
    Federal parliamentary republic

    Legal system
    Common law system with Islamic law influence

    Source: CIA World Factbook

  • Pray for Pakistan

    Pray that amendments will be made to Pakistan's existing blasphemy laws so that the country's citizens – including its children – will be protected from injustice and abuse. May our Lord's mercy and justice prevail, not only in the judiciary system but also in the hearts of the country's militants. Ask Him to transform their "hearts of stone" into hearts that are receptive to His love, mercy and the workings of His Holy Spirit – not only for the purpose of protecting the Christian minority but also for the salvation of their own eternal souls.

Pakistan News

  • Justice Delayed in Jaranwala
    Furniture and possessions are strewn on a street. Some of them are burning.
    The riots in 2023.
    Photo: Morning Star News

    Incensed by allegations of blasphemy against two falsely accused Christian brothers, thousands of angry people stormed a Christian colony in Jaranwala, Punjab, on August 16th, 2023. The mob destroyed hundreds of homes and businesses before the violence was eventually brought under control. (Video footage of the attack is available here.)

  • Catholic Pilgrim Killed During Van Attack
    Afzal Masih is surrounded by mourners. One woman's hands are gently touching the wraps covering him.
    Afzal Masih, surrounded by his loved ones.
    Photo: Morning Star News

    In the early morning hours of September 7th, a van carrying as many as 18 Catholics was travelling to a pilgrimage site in Mariamabad when three young men on motorbikes intercepted the vehicle by swerving in front of it. The motorcyclists had noticed a cross and Christian posters on the outside of the travelling van.

  • Delayed Investigation After Attack on Christian Woman
    A very dark room is dimly lit by a single window in the corner. A woman is silhouetted against the window.
     

    A horrific attack on a young Christian mother has once again exposed the severe forms of persecution experienced by religious minorities in Pakistan. On June 11th, Sheeza Bibi was brutally raped by three men while her three-year-old daughter, Dua, watched in terror. The incident was clearly premeditated.

  • Court Decisions Render Justice for Christians
    Adil Babar is standing outside.
    Adil Babar
    Photo: Morning Star News

    Christians in Pakistan often encounter intense opposition, particularly through the country's legal system. However, three recent court rulings have brought about a measure of relief and a renewed hope for justice.