For the Safety of our crew and Sufferer, we have now modified the title and metropolis:
In Lahore, Yousaf Masih, a 48-year-old Christian motor mechanic, lived a easy life. He spent his days repairing engines, lined in grease and sweat, incomes simply sufficient to feed his spouse and 4 youngsters. However one afternoon, he turned his world into ashes.
In accordance with a criticism filed by a person named Rafique Shahzad (True title of the criticism), Yousaf was allegedly overheard “utilizing derogatory phrases” towards Islam and its Prophet whereas standing on the door of his workshop: no proof, no witnesses, simply an accusation. But in Pakistan, that’s all it takes.
Earlier than Yousaf might even grasp what had occurred, rumors unfold like wildfire. A mob gathered, shouting slogans, fueled by rage and false piety. Inside minutes, Yousaf’s workshop was set ablaze. The hearth devoured his instruments, his livelihood, and his years of trustworthy labor.
By the grace of God, Yousaf and his household managed to flee earlier than the mob discovered them. They ran via slim streets, carrying nothing however worry and religion. Native Christian leaders instantly contacted our crew as a result of when such storms strike, we are sometimes the one ones keen to take the chance to guard, conceal, and relocate victims like Yousaf.
We moved him first to Karachi, the place the household lived quietly, hiding. The method was complicated, because it concerned navigating a maze of threats, police surveillance, and the near-impossible activity of acquiring passports. But, as Yousaf usually stated later, “What’s unimaginable for man is feasible with God.” By divine favor and tireless effort, the household was safely relocated to Southeast Asia, the place they’re now below UNHCR safety and awaiting asylum.
Yousaf’s story will not be an exception; it’s a reflection of the darkish actuality 1000’s of Christians face in Pakistan. The blasphemy legal guidelines, initially meant to stop non secular hatred, have turn into one of the crucial harmful instruments of persecution. A mere accusation, usually born of non-public vendettas or prejudice, can destroy a life.
If Yousaf had been caught that day, like so many earlier than him, equivalent to Asiya Bibi and plenty of others, he would doubtless have spent years behind bars, tortured and forgotten, awaiting a trial that by no means brings justice.
These legal guidelines should not about defending religion; they’re about silencing voices, punishing minorities, and spreading worry.
At the moment, Yousaf and his household are rebuilding their lives in security. They stay humbly, nonetheless scarred however profoundly grateful for his or her second likelihood. His workshop is gone, however his spirit will not be damaged.
When requested what retains him going, Yousaf says,
“They burned my store, however not my religion. They took my instruments, however not my hope.”
