Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan: The tragic murder of Imtiaz Masih, a Christian father of five daughters, murdered on February 21, 2025, has sparked outrage and distress among Pakistan’s Christian community. On a bright afternoon in Chak Jumro No. 163 RB, District Faisalabad, the victim was ruthlessly gunned down in broad daylight. Authorities quickly registered a First Information Report (FIR No. 290/25) at the Chak Jumro Police Station, with the arrest of the suspects, who were reportedly familiar individuals to the victim. The suspects, according to sources, were Muslims. However, a growing sense of injustice has gripped the community, as many believe the investigation is being handled inadequately.

Imtiaz Masih had been subjected to threats just days before his tragic death, stemming from a minor dispute. But according to eyewitnesses and family members, it was not just the conflict but his Christian identity that led to his brutal murder. "He had no way to defend himself," said his grieving widow, reflecting on how her husband’s faith made him an easy target. The family’s calls for justice have gone unheard, and their sorrow is compounded by their fear that the legal system will fail them because of their faith.

The murder has sparked widespread condemnation, particularly from Christian leaders and human rights defenders. Pastor Imran Amanat, a prominent figure with LEAD Ministries, condemned the killing and stressed the need for justice, regardless of the victim’s economic or social standing. “Justice must be served for Imtiaz, not just because he was a father and husband, but because he was a human being. His poverty should not make him invisible to the law, and his Christian identity should never have been a reason for his death,” Pastor Amanat stated. “Christian families are crying out that they are no longer safe in Pakistan. No one should live in fear of being harmed simply because of their faith.”

Sardar Mushtaq Gill, the founder of LEAD Ministries, echoed these sentiments, calling for a thorough and impartial investigation into the case. “We are deeply saddened by this senseless tragedy. We must remember that the rights of every person, regardless of their religious background, should be protected under the law. Our hearts go out to the victim’s family, and we implore the authorities to act swiftly to deliver justice in this case, as in all others,” he said. “This is not just about a single murder; it is a call to ensure that all persons, regardless of their religion, are afforded equal protection and justice.”

In a region where religious minorities face increasing challenges, the murder of Imtiaz Masih highlights the dangerous reality for many Christians in Pakistan. Many fear that their voices go unheard, and their pleas for justice are often ignored or delayed. The Masih family’s struggle for justice is not an isolated case but a part of a broader issue of discrimination, injustice, and violence that continues to plague religious minorities in the country.

As the investigation progresses, the Christian community in Pakistan, along with human rights organizations, is calling for a fair and timely resolution. The hope is that the authorities will not only bring the perpetrators to justice but also send a strong message that no individual will suffer violence due to their faith. Until then, the Masih family and countless others continue to wait for justice that many believe is long overdue.

LEAD Ministries, a prominent advocacy organization dedicated to protecting religious minorities in Pakistan, has been at the forefront of addressing the challenges faced by persecuted communities, particularly Christians. Founded by Sardar Mushtaq Gill, LEAD Ministries works tirelessly to raise awareness about religious discrimination and human rights violations, both within Pakistan and internationally. The organization advocates for victims of persecution, ensuring their voices are heard. LEAD Ministries also plays a critical role in educating the global community about the struggles faced by Christians in Pakistan, urging governments, NGOs, and the international public to take a stand against religious intolerance and injustice. Through its efforts, LEAD Ministries seeks to foster a safer and more inclusive environment for all religious minorities while pushing for meaningful change in the policies and practices that perpetuate discrimination.

By LEAD Ministries pakistan