KASUR:
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A protest march for Shahzad and Shama was held in Kasur 9th November 2014. Pastors of all denominations including Catholic and Protestant participated.The demonstrators chanted slogans and brandished placards protesting the ongoing religious persecution in Pakistan, demanding an end to the injustices and abuses related to the blasphemy laws.
“The government must take immediate bold steps to repeal blasphemy law. The government has absolutely failed to protect its citizens right to life and property” said Sardar Mushtaq Gill Human Rights Defender.
The protestors condemned the horrific killing of Shahzad Masih and his pregnant wife, Shama Bibi who were mercilessly beaten, and burnt to death in the brick kiln of their employer. The murders were initiated through a false accusation of blasphemy.
The Police claimed they were unable to save Shazad and Shama, because they were outnumbered by the mob. The Police are typically reluctant to intervene when a charge of blasphemy is levelled at a Christian.
Christians in Pakistan are not safe, unless, and until the blasphemy law is repealed. LEAD are urging believers in the West to speak up for minorities living in fear in Pakistan, through demonstrations and petitions to Governments.
Wilson Chowdhry, Chairman of the British Pakistani Christian Association, said;
“We commend our brothers and sisters in Pakistan, who have put their lives at risk by protesting for justice for Shahzad and Shama. People across Pakistan have been moved by the suffering of the innocent couple, who were brutalized in extreme and fairly unique circumstances. Similar protests are taking place across the globe, in Britain the BPCA andICC is leading a protest for Shahzad and Shama at 10 Downing Street, on 22nd November 2014. We hope people of good conscience will come out and join us – irrespective of your faith.”
Event: Protest and 1 hour memorial service for Shahzad and Shama
Time: 11am – 1pm
Date: 22nd November 2014
Venue: 10 Downing Street, London, SW1A 2AA
The BPCA has initiated a permanent benevolent fund for the family of Shahzad and Shama. The BPCA desires to free them from their bonded labour status and will work towards providing a new safer environment for this family, that has suffered the loss of loved ones in a brutal and savage manner. This family have been left with serious emotional and psychological scarring and are receiving counselling. The orphaned children are being cared for by the family of Shahzad and your donations will provide ongoing care. If you would like to contribute to our appeal our bank details are as follows:
Sort Code: 20-67-90 Account number: 63468976 Bank: Barclays
Ref: Love for Shahzad and Shama (regular standing orders must use this reference).
Alternatively if you would like to send an immediate donation please use the pay-pal facility on the top right hand corner of our blog, or simply send a cheque made payable to the BPCA to our address; 57 Green Lane, Ilford, Essex, IG1 1XG.
With your support we hope to change the lives of millions of Christians in Pakistan.
E J Gray our latest member of the BPCA research team, has asked that we share the following biblical verse:
” For thou art my rock and fortress; therefore for thy name’s sake lead me, and guide me” Psalm 31:3