The British Asian Christian Association (BACA) continues to provide unwavering support to the orphaned children of Shama and Shehzad, the young Christian couple who were tragically tortured and burned alive in 2014 after false accusations of blasphemy. This heinous act left their children orphaned and in need of care, which BACA has steadfastly provided over the years. During a visit in November 2024 to celebrate Sonia’s 13th birthday, the children expressed a heartfelt request to BACA: they wished for winter clothing and shoes for Christmas. True to its commitment, BACA ensured their wish became a reality. On December 23rd, a…
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On December 21st, 2024, the British Asian Christian Association (BACA) brought Christmas joy to the Christian and Hindu communities of Ibrahim Khan Mari, Sindh, with a special meal and a delicious Christmas cake. This heartfelt gesture of love, hope, and gratitude was a reminder to these families, who endure difficult living conditions and low wages working on Muslim landlords’ farms, that they are not forgotten. Over 20 families gathered to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, sharing in worship, a message of faith, and a festive meal that brought light to their holiday season. On 21st December 2024, the British…
Pakistani Christian asylum-seeking families in Bangkok, Thailand, came together on December 24th for a heartwarming Christmas celebration hosted by the British Asian Christian Association (BACA). Held at Joyous Celebration Church, the event provided over 20 families with a rare opportunity to share the festive spirit, savor traditional Pakistani cuisine and witness children’s heartfelt performances of Christian worship songs and traditional carols. With gifts for children, food grants for families, and a delicious cake-cutting ceremony, the celebration brought much-needed joy and connection to those who have endured years of hardship while awaiting resettlement. Bangkok, Thailand – December 25, 2024 Pakistani Christian…
After a Christian teenager was abducted and raped by a Muslim man, the British Asian Christian Association (BACA) stepped in to support the victim with legal representation and advocacy. In a significant development, the pre-arrest bail of the rapist, Ansar Shah, has been canceled by both the Sessions Court in Sheikhupura and the Lahore High Court, signaling progress in the fight for justice. BACA has been instrumental in gathering crucial evidence and assisting the police in a raid on Shah’s residence. Despite these efforts, Shah remains a fugitive, hiding at an unknown location to evade arrest. To prevent his escape…
On Sunday, 22nd December, the British Asian Christian Association (BACA) organized a heartwarming Christmas dinner to bring hope and joy to Christian families under their care. This special event aimed to foster a sense of belonging and encouragement for families who have endured significant hardships due to their vulnerable status in a predominantly Muslim society. The gathering offered these families an opportunity to connect, build solidarity, and find comfort in knowing they are not alone during challenging times. In attendance were several high-profile beneficiaries, many of whom face significant challenges that limit their ability to engage socially. Among them was…
On 24th October 2024, two Christian brothers, Imran Denial (30) and Arslan Denial (24), were tragically gunned down by drug lords Ali Butt, Qadir Butt, and their accomplices in the bustling main bazaar of Rachna Town. The violence erupted following a heated confrontation when the brothers courageously refused to allow the sale of drugs in their hair salon. Imran was killed instantly, while Arslan succumbed to his injuries en route to the hospital. Read more (here) The assailants’ rampage left a trail of devastation, with multiple rounds fired indiscriminately. Alongside the brothers, an innocent girl passing through the bazaar was…
The British Asian Christian Association (BACA) is witnessing an unprecedented surge in demand for its free hot meals service for the homeless in Ilford, as homelessness in London reaches record levels. Visitor numbers at BACA’s service have nearly doubled, with over 70 individuals, including families with young children, attending some distributions. BACA operates its hot meals service at the Clementswood Community Centre, Connaught Road, Ilford, every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 6 pm to 7 pm, and is now expanding its support by accepting donations of clothing and essential items during service hours. Homelessness at a Breaking Point Recent data…
On 14 April 2023, the Manipur High Court directed the state government to recommend Scheduled Tribe status for the Meitei community, a move later criticized by the Supreme Court. Protesting this demand, the All Tribal Students’ Union Manipur organized peaceful marches on 3 May. Following one such march, clashes erupted between Kuki and Meitei groups near the Churachandpur and Bishnupur district border, escalating into widespread violence, house burnings, and targeted attacks. Within a week, 100 Kukis had been killed some burned alive within their own houses. (click here). Christmas celebrations were subdued and sombre in 2023 as nearly 200 bodies…
Date: 7th December 2024 Juliet Chowdhry, Trustee of the British Asian Christian Association (BACA), expresses her heartfelt gratitude for the tireless efforts of UK politicians working towards improving the human rights conditions for Pakistani Christians and other religious minorities. Juliet Chowdhry, Trustee of the British Asian Christian Association (BACA), has expressed her profound joy and appreciation for the significant progress made by UK politicians in both the House of Lords and the House of Commons regarding the issue of persecution of Christians in Pakistan. These developments are a beacon of hope for marginalized religious minorities who continue to endure abuse,…
On 28th November 2024, the House of Commons witnessed a crucial debate on the deteriorating state of religious freedom in Pakistan. MPs from across political lines came together to raise their voices against the systematic persecution faced by religious minorities, including Christians, Ahmadis, Shi’a Muslims, and the Baloch people. The session marked an important step in holding the Pakistani government accountable and galvanizing UK support for the human rights of these vulnerable communities. The debate began with Jim Shannon MP, Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for International Freedom of Religion or Belief, who delivered a compelling opening speech. He…