A Christian family in Punjab, Pakistan, has been threatened with accusations of “blasphemy” if they try to reclaim their home, which was allegedly seized by a Muslim neighbour.
Sarwar Masih says that the property in Gujranwala has been his family’s home for 70 years.
The new occupants have displayed Islamic banners, Quranic verses and images of Medina (a Saudi Arabian city holy to Muslims). Since 23 February the occupiers have said that they will file a “blasphemy” case against anybody who supposedly desecrates these items by trying to gain access to the property.
The city of Gujranwala in Punjab, Pakistan [Image credit: Tipoo Fawwad/Wikipedia]
The occupants allegedly also posted a notice declaring that anyone attempting to open the door would be accused of desecrating Islamic material, and warned that houses in the area would be set alight if any action was taken.
Pakistan’s notorious “blasphemy” laws are often used to make false accusations in order to settle personal grudges. Christians and other religious minorities are especially vulnerable, and the lower courts usually favour the testimony of Muslims, in accordance with sharia (Islamic law).
Accusations of “blasphemy” frequently trigger mob violence and even killings.
“Blasphemy” accusations as a tool for land grabbing
A 50-year-old Muslim neighbour, Muhammad Shahid, confirmed that he had known the Christian family since childhood and that they are the rightful owners of the property.
An investigation carried out by Human Rights Focus Pakistan (HRFP) established that the family has lived in the house for more than 70 years that their ownership has never been in dispute.
“This is not the first time land grabbers have allegedly used threats of blasphemy accusations to silence Christian families and force them to abandon their homes,” said Naveed Walter, President of HRFP.
“In many cases, victims are attacked, isolated and compelled to relocate rather than pursue justice,” he explained.
Walter also added that police failed to register a First Information Report (FIR) against the accused for illegal occupation.
Human rights advocates have repeatedly criticised the misuse Pakistan’s “blasphemy” laws, particularly Sections 295-A, 295-B, and 295-C of the Pakistan Penal Code, for disproportionately affecting religious minorities.
In November 2025, two Christian nurses who were accused of “blasphemy” more than four years earlier, were finally acquitted.
How you can pray
Ask the Lord to guide Sarwar Masih’s lawyers in their conduct of this case with wisdom. Pray for a just conclusion to this case, that the family will be restored to its home and the occupiers brought to sober reflection and repentance, as well as awe at how God defends and sustains His people. Pray that the tide will turn in Pakistan and those who would accuse Christians and other minorities of “blasphemy” will be deterred and instead seek His truth with urgency.
