News Desk
On March 2, 2026, religious minority rights activists and members gathered in Islamabad to observe the 15th anniversary of the assassination of Shahbaz Bhatti, Pakistan’s former Minister for Minority Affairs.
Shahbaz Bhatti was gunned down in a targeted daylight attack in Islamabad on March 2, 2011, for his vocal opposition to the country’s blasphemy laws and his defense of minority rights. Now, 15 years later, his vision of an inclusive, tolerant Pakistan still remains tragically unfinished. Activists and religious minority members at the event highlighted that, despite his sacrifice, minorities remain marginalized, and blasphemy laws continue to be blatantly misused to trample the rights of innocent citizens
Bhatti, a Catholic, is remembered as a martyr for religious freedom in Pakistan. His cause for beatification, which could lead to him being declared a saint, was officially opened by the Diocese of Islamabad-Rawalpindi in March 2016.
A candlelight event and prayers were held at his assassination spot to commemorate his life and work, with many remembering him as a true patriot who fought for a Pakistan where law, justice, and equality prevail. Around the time of the 15th anniversary, new materials highlighting his life and martyrdom were released, including the book Blood & Water: The Life and Martyrdom of Shahbaz Bhatti. Bhatti remains a significant figure for Pakistani Christians and international human rights advocates, with the 15th anniversary serving as a reminder of the need to protect vulnerable groups in the country.
MRMP advocates for equal protection and rights for religious minorities, including Christian, Hindu and Sikh, who are still discriminated against in Pakistan. They conduct meetings with lawmakers, Muslim leaders, and politicians to advocate for peace, acceptance, and interfaith harmony in society.
MRMP, led by Shahbaz Bhatti’s nephew Nadeem Bhatti, and other Christian leaders have continued the work of great men like Martyr Shahbaz Bhatti and Martyr Dr. Bishop John Joseph; who led the way advocating for persecuted Christians and other religious minorities in Pakistan. Minority rights campaigner and implementation of constitutional rights. Nadeem Bhatti