PAKISTAN: Shahzad & Shama

1 NOVEMBER 2014

This is a tragic and heartbreaking account of the persecution faced by Shahzad and Shama, a Christian couple living in Pakistan. Their story highlights the religious tensions and discrimination faced by religious minorities in some parts of the world.

The couple’s ordeal began with false accusations of burning a Koran, which fuelled the anger of the local Muslim community. The mob’s violence escalated quickly, resulting in the brutal beating of the couple, dragging them behind a tractor, and ultimately their deaths. It’s important to recognise that such violence and intolerance have no place in any society, and it is essential to promote religious tolerance and respect for all individuals regardless of their beliefs.

The abuse and mistreatment of Christians in Pakistan and other parts of the world are deeply concerning. Blasphemy laws, which can be misused to target religious minorities, need to be reviewed and reformed to protect innocent individuals from false accusations and violence.

The tragic deaths of Shahzad and Shama have sparked condemnation from local politicians, and the incident has led to calls for changes in the country’s blasphemy laws. It is crucial that governments and communities work together to promote religious freedom and create an environment where everyone can live peacefully and practice their faith without fear of persecution.

It’s important to remember and honour the lives of those who have suffered due to religious intolerance, like Shahzad and Shama, and to continue advocating for human rights and religious freedom for all individuals.