RAIWIND, Pakistan: Calls for a thorough and transparent investigation have intensified following the alleged poisoning death of Salamat Masih, a Christian brick kiln worker and father of six from Raiwind.

According to family members, the dispute began when a local resident allegedly accused Masih of stealing a mobile phone, an allegation he denied. The family claims that on 27 April 2026, the individual—identified by them as Muhammad Sajad—lured Masih away under false pretences and took him to orchards located behind his residence, where he was allegedly given poisoned water.

The family further states that Masih’s condition deteriorated rapidly after consuming the liquid. He was first taken to Indus Hospital and later transferred to Jinnah Hospital Lahore, where he died on the morning of 28 April. Relatives maintain that Masih indicated in his final moments that he had been poisoned. They have called for a swift, transparent investigation and demand that those responsible be brought to justice without delay.

Condemning the incident, Pastor Imran Amanat of LEAD Ministries expressed deep sorrow over the death and called on law enforcement authorities to ensure justice is carried out strictly in accordance with the law. He emphasized the need for stronger institutional protections for low-income labour communities, particularly workers in high-risk informal sectors such as brick kilns.

Concerns Over Vulnerability and Protection

Civil society voices and human rights advocates have expressed concern over the vulnerability of low-income minority communities in Pakistan, particularly in rural labour settings where access to legal protection and formal justice mechanisms is often limited. They argue that such cases highlight the importance of timely investigations and effective enforcement of labour and criminal laws.

At the same time, rights groups have repeatedly called for reforms aimed at strengthening safeguards for marginalized communities, including improved regulation of informal labour arrangements and better access to justice for workers in exploitative conditions.

Authorities have not yet issued a detailed public statement regarding the incident. Further investigation is expected to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the death.