Photo: Pexels / Rana Saif
A 14-year-old Christian boy from a village in Punjab has reportedly been forcibly converted to Islam by his employer and separated from his family. The boy, Jameel Masih, is the son of a poor labourer named Sharif. Due to financial hardships, Sharif was compelled to send his son to work at a local cattle farm. Instead of paying wages for the young teen's labour, the owner – Muhammad Boota Bajwa – supplied the family with wheat. Jameel's parents were permitted to visit their son once a month and occasionally bring him home overnight.
On February 22nd, Sharif and his wife Nazia attempted to visit their son, but they had been denied access. The Christian parents were then informed that Jameel had changed his religion and no longer wished to see them. Distressed, the parents brought the matter to village elders, who concluded that, as a minor, Jameel could not legally change his religion. They ordered that the boy be returned to his family, who brought him home. Only hours later, however, the employer arrived at their household with armed associates and forcibly took the boy away.
Despite repeated pleas, the family has not been allowed to see Jameel or receive confirmation of his safety. Fearing that he may have been harmed or sold to someone else, Sharif and Nazia have filed a formal complaint with police. The Christian advocacy group, HARDS, which has taken up their cause, intends to file necessary court petitions to secure Jameel's recovery.
Religious minorities in Pakistan frequently encounter exploitation and abuse, not only because of their faith but also due to the vulnerability that comes with deep poverty. To access other reports concerning the ill-treatment of Christians in Pakistan, go to our country profile.
- Pray earnestly for Jameel's protection and soon release from captivity, asking God to shield him from potential harm and safely reunite him with his family.
- May local authorities act with courage, integrity and urgency on behalf of this boy and his distraught family, so that justice will prevail in their case.
- May advocacy groups seeking equality and protection for Christians across Pakistan receive strength and wisdom as they diligently persevere in their tireless efforts to uphold justice.
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