Christian Sentenced to Life in Prison for Alleged Blasphemy

On March 18th, 2022, Fansan Shahid was taken from his home in Lahore and charged with blasphemy. The charges arose after the Christian man purportedly commented on photos of suicide bombings that occurred in Sri Lanka. As the attackers appeared to be Muslims, his accuser alleged that Fansan's social media comment insulted the Islamic prophet Muhammad.

During interrogation, Fansan was coerced into confessing – something he later retracted during his trial. He further stated that the phone he used to make the comment has been lost since 2019. Despite the missing phone and his denial of any involvement, the Christian father of two was convicted and sentenced to life in prison on January 24th of this year.

In response to the verdict, Fansan's sister Sonia stated: "We are deeply shocked by the conviction of Fansan. We are praying for justice and [his] release through appeal." The family has been forced to relocate due to concerns for their safety. For more information on the persecution of Christians in Pakistan, go to our country report.

Please lift up Fansan before God's throne of grace as he faces the accusations against him. Pray that his appeal hearing will be successful, and that consequently he would be released from custody. Ask the Lord to ensure the safety of this accused believer and his family, as well as any other Christians in their community who may be at risk. May the Holy Spirit work mightily within the hearts and minds of citizens throughout Pakistan – including those serving as legislators – so that the country's widely abused blasphemy laws would be repealed.