Letter of complaint filed against the nurses Photo from All Pakistan Minorities Alliance.
Christian staff at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences hospital in Islamabad face accusations of blasphemy, according to a June 1 report from All Pakistan Minorities Alliance. On May 17, Muslim nurses found lines drawn through Quranic verses posted on a notice board and told the nursing school administration that the Christians were responsible. On June 1, Muslims demonstrated against the Christians and demanded that they be charged with blasphemy. In response, the school's administration has filed a complaint. The principal of the school, Ms. Stella, was suspended along with four student nurses. All five deny any involvement in the vandalism.
Pray that all charges will be dropped against these Christian women. Pray that they will stand firm in the face of these allegations. Pray that they will demonstrate Christ's love and compassion to those opposing them (Romans 12:17-21).
For more information on the persecution of Christians in Pakistan, click here.
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.
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.
One of the believers facing blasphemy charges. Photo: Christian Daily International / Morning Star News
In Pakistan, the punishment for a blasphemy conviction is the death penalty. While no one has yet been executed under these laws, many allegations frequently result in lengthy legal battles, prolonged imprisonment, and significant other hardships for the accused and their families.
Naseem (centre) with his representing lawyers. Photo: Christian Daily International-Morning Star News
A Pakistani court has recently acquitted Naseem Masih, who was initially charged with blasphemy. According to findings based on substantial evidence, the judge presiding over Naseem's case ruled that the allegations against the accused were fabricated and that the prosecution "miserably failed to prove its case." The June 22nd ruling thankfully brings an end to 10 enduring months of wrongful imprisonment for the innocent businessman whose blindness (since birth) further compounded the suffering he experienced throughout his detainment.
Governor of Punjab, Sardar Saleem Haider Khan. Photo: Wikipedia (CC)
On February 11th, the governor of Punjab, Pakistan, signed the "Child Marriage Restraint Ordinance 2026" into effect. The bill raised the minimum age for marriage, providing greater protections for the country's vulnerable youth. It is hoped that this law will now help prevent the kidnapping, forced conversion and marriage of Christian girls. (Further details about the newly implemented legislation are available in this report.)
Governor of Punjab, Sardar Saleem Haider Khan Photo: Wikipedia (CC)
On February 11th, the governor of Punjab signed the "Child Marriage Restraint Ordinance 2026" into effect. This recently implemented law aims to raise the minimum legal age for marriage to 18 and establish penalties for violation. Those advocating for the protection of the country's youth describe the legislation as a "moral and social victory." (For more details, see our previously published report.)