Pakistan: The British Asian Christian Association (BACA) continues to stand in solidarity with vulnerable Christian families in Pakistan, offering critical financial, legal, and moral support in times of unimaginable trauma.

On 10 December, Shumaya Saleem, a six-year-old Christian girl, was brutally raped in Jaranwala by Muhammad Uzair (19). Shumaya had gone to the home of her tuition teacher, Miss Siffat (24), for additional lessons in English, Maths, and Urdu. Miss Siffat is the sister of the accused. After the lesson ended, Muhammad Uzair took Shumaya into the living room located within the residential portion of the school premises, where he raped her.

The City Police Station Jaranwala registered FIR No. 2015/25 under Section 376 of the Pakistan Penal Code. A forensic team collected blood-stained clothing and other evidence, and the accused was sent to the Punjab Forensic Science Agency for DNA analysis.

Family Forced into Displacement

Following the rape, the family of the perpetrator began pressuring Shumaya’s parents to reach a compromise. Fearing for their safety, Shumaya’s family was forced to leave their home and relocate to another area with a close relative.

On 13 December, a BACA team visited Shumaya’s parents. Her father, Saleem Masih, a construction labourer, had lost his job as a direct result of the intimidation and displacement. With no stable income and mounting pressure, the family’s situation became increasingly desperate.

BACA stepped in immediately, offering financial support and legal assistance. With help from another charity, the family was successfully relocated to a safer area.

Arif Masih, Shumaya’s uncle, and her father Saleem Masih ask for prayers and support for her healing

Emergency Financial Support from BACA

After losing his employment, Saleem Masih struggled to meet even the most basic needs. He contacted BACA requesting urgent assistance. On 16 January 2026, BACA officers met the family and provided financial support to cover essential groceries and frequent court travel expenses, enabling the family to continue pursuing justice.

Saleem Masih shared his gratitude, saying:

“After losing my work and being forced to leave our home, we felt helpless. BACA’s support for our daily needs and court travel has been a lifeline for my family. We know we are not alone because BACA stands with us.”

Juliet Chowdhry, Trustee of BACA, strongly condemned the crime and reaffirmed BACA’s commitment:

“No child should ever endure such brutality, and no family should be forced into silence through fear or poverty. BACA will continue to stand with Shumaya and her family—ensuring they are supported, protected, and empowered to pursue justice, no matter how powerful the pressure against them.”

Kalsoom Bibi (mother) comforts Shumaya, holding her safely in her lap

Shumaya’s Ongoing Trauma

Shumaya continues to suffer from post-traumatic stress. Her mother, Kalsoom Bibi (36), told BACA that her daughter is undergoing regular medical check-ups and remains on medication.

Kalsoom Bibi shared the painful reality of their daily life:

“Shumaya does not play or laugh. She remains in depression.”

“Her silence makes us distressed and worried.”

The emotional scars of this crime continue to affect the entire family, and we call on our supporters to pray for Shumaya’s healing, for strength and protection for her parents, and for justice to prevail.

The British Asian Christian Association has agreed to fund all medical costs and professional counselling sessions for young Shumaya, who is exhibiting symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder and is currently unable to attend school. A qualified professional will deliver these sessions.

Case Update

Saleem Masih informed BACA that Muhammad Raiz Dogar, the father of the accused, filed an application with the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Faisalabad, challenging the police investigation and requesting a change of investigation officer.

On 15 January, the SSP summoned Saleem Masih to his office, where Muhammad Raiz Dogar was also present. The SSP rebuked and strongly reprimanded the accused’s father for questioning the investigation despite clear awareness of his son’s crime.

The accused filed an application for post-arrest bail. A hearing was held on 13 January, with subsequent hearings on 19 January and 24 January. On 19 January, the complainant’s counsel presented arguments, and the case was adjourned.

Saleem Masih expressed deep appreciation for BACA’s continued support:

“I thank BACA for moral and financial support in fighting for justice for Shumaya. I will contact BACA for legal help when the trial begins.”

BACA’s Commitment

BACA remains committed to supporting Shumaya and her family through legal advocacy, emergency relief, professional counselling, medical care, and long-term assistance. This case underscores the urgent need to protect vulnerable minority children and to ensure that justice is neither delayed nor denied.

BACA will continue to monitor the case closely and stand with the family every step of the way.

Juliet Chowdhry, Trustee for British Asian Christian Asian Association, said:

“What happened to Shumaya is a horrific crime against a child and a grave failure to protect vulnerable minorities. A six-year-old should be thinking about school and play, not living with trauma and fear. No amount of pressure, intimidation, or poverty should ever silence a family seeking justice. BACA will stand unwaveringly with Shumaya and her parents—we will walk with them for as long as it takes, ensuring they are supported, safeguarded, and able to pursue healing and justice without fear.”