Lahore, December 3, 2024: A New Apostolic Church pastor Asim Masih and his family in the village of Jajjan Kallan, Kasur district, are facing escalating threats and intimidation from a group of local Muslims, jeopardizing their plans to hold Christmas Mass. The pastor, along with other family members, was violently attacked over a dispute involving the sale of cattle, with the attackers now reportedly blocking access to the church and threatening to prevent the Christmas service.

The incident began on November 29, 2024, when a group of armed men, led by Muhammad Usman, Shahzad, Muhammad Nabeel, Akbar Ali, and several unidentified individuals, attacked Pastor Asim Masih’s brother, Shakil Masih. The attackers, armed with guns, sticks, and axes, abducted and tortured Shakil before dragging him toward their home with the intent to kill him.

Eyewitness Shamshad Masih alerted the family, prompting Pastor Asim, his father Barkat Masih, and others to intervene. “When we arrived, we saw them beating my brother mercilessly and shouting that they would kill him. Despite my pleas, they attacked me and my father, fracturing my arm and causing severe injuries to all of us,” Pastor Asim recounted. Shots were fired during the attack, leaving Shakil and Barkat injured. The attackers also stole Pastor Asim’s motorcycle and cash.

The family contacted the police emergency helpline, leading to the attackers fleeing the scene. However, Pastor Asim reported that the police have since failed to take meaningful action. An FIR was filed at the Sara-e-Mughal police station on December 2, under various sections of the Pakistan Penal Code, including attempted murder and theft.

The root of the conflict, according to Pastor Asim, is a dispute over the sale of a cow. The attackers allegedly demanded the purchase of the animal, but Shakil refused as the cow held sentimental value. However, Pastor Asim believes the real motive behind the aggression is a desire to seize their land.

The situation has further deteriorated, with the attackers reportedly threatening to block the family and the Christian community from holding Christmas Mass at their church. “They are now saying we won’t be allowed to hold Christmas prayers. They’ve also blocked the pathway to the church,” Pastor Asim revealed.

The pastor and his community, comprising over 1,000 Christians in approximately 300 households, are now living in fear. “This isn’t just about our cattle; it’s about a campaign of intimidation and religious persecution,” Pastor Asim said.

Despite the guarantees of religious freedom in Pakistan’s constitution, the reality for many Christians remains grim. Pastor Asim, who oversees four churches in the region, has appealed to authorities for intervention to ensure the safety of his family and congregation. “Christmas is a time of hope and celebration, but this year, we are facing threats that could prevent us from worshipping in peace,” he said.

The Christian community in Kasur is calling for urgent action from law enforcement and government authorities to restore their safety and protect their fundamental rights.