Official Threatens Christian with Blasphemy Charges

Karachi airport
Jinnah International Airport
Photo: Wikipedia / A. Savin (cc)

A Christian security guard at the Jinnah International Airport in Karachi, Pakistan, was recently threatened with blasphemy charges because she insisted on following regulations. Thankfully, the incident was captured on video footage, documenting the entire exchange.

On January 7th, a female security officer stopped a vehicle from entering the airport's cargo area because the driver did not have the necessary documentation. Her superior insisted that the vehicle should be allowed to enter, since the driver was a friend of his. Standing by the airport's regulations, the Christian woman refused, which angered her superior. Threatening to "cut [her] up," he further warned that he would file complaints of blasphemy against her. In response, the security officer challenged him to go ahead with the accusations, stating that it is he who's disrespecting his religion.

Video footage of the confrontation circulated on social media, bringing condemnation from many. Responding to the incident, the Civil Aviation Authority issued a statement announcing that the offending official has been dismissed and a detailed investigation was ordered.

While the Christian woman was vindicated of the allegations against her, the incident demonstrates the treatment commonly experienced by religious minorities in Pakistan. Accusations of blasphemy are frequently used to threaten, punish or gain an advantage over others. For more information on the challenges facing our Christian brothers and sisters in Pakistan, go to our country report.

Praise God for the positive response of the authorities in regards to this potentially dangerous situation. Remember to pray for the numerous other Pakistani believers who are receiving similar threats because of their faith in Christ. Despite opposition, may they remain true to their convictions by not compromising their moral values and integrity. As a result, may the truth of God's Word continue to spread throughout Pakistan so that many will be reached with the message of the Gospel.

  • 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

  • Blasphemy Conviction for Online Posts
    Furniture and possessions are strewn on a street. Some of them are burning.
    The riots in 2023.
    Photo: Morning Star News

    In August 2023, the Christian colony of Jaranwala was filled with violence after allegations of blasphemy were made against two brothers. During the rampage, as many as 400 homes and 26 church buildings were damaged or destroyed. For more details, and to view video footage of the attacks, see this page.

  • Wife of Nazir Masih Dies of a Heart Attack
    Naseem and Nazir
    Naseem and Nazir
    Photo: Morning Star News
     

    In May, shocking images of mob violence were revealed after 74-year-old Nazir Masih was falsely accused of burning pages from the Quran. The elderly Christian man was fatally wounded during the resulting mob violence, which also led to the destruction of his shoemaking business, along with several attacks against other Christians. Further details on the violent rampage are available here.