Report by: Nasir Jamil
Gujranwala, December 29, 2024:
The killing of Salman Iqbal, a Christian farmer from Kot Saadullah in Gujranwala Cantonment, has reignited concerns over the safety and rights of religious minorities in Pakistan. Salman, a self-made individual who rose to prosperity through years of hard work, was gunned down in broad daylight, allegedly by a group led by Abdul Rehman.
According to family members, Salman began his life with modest jobs and later became a tenant farmer, cultivating 20 acres of agricultural land. His hard work yielded good crops, enabling him to purchase and repair an old harvester, which he used to establish a successful harvesting business. Over the years, he expanded his enterprise by acquiring another harvester. However, his success reportedly attracted jealousy and hostility from some members of the local community.
Two years ago, Abdul Rehman and his associates allegedly pressured Salman to sell them water for his fields. When Salman refused, they accused him of blasphemy, a charge that has been historically weaponized against minorities in Pakistan. A settlement was reached at the time through police and local mediation, but tensions remained high.
The situation escalated further when Rehman’s group allegedly looted Salman’s crops and vandalized his harvester. Despite Salman’s efforts to seek justice from the authorities, no action was reportedly taken. A few days before the fatal incident, Rehman and his associates are said to have attacked Salman’s harvester with gunfire, intensifying fears for his safety.
On December 29, Salman and his brother Dawood were at a local market buying groceries when Rehman and his group allegedly opened fire. Salman died on the spot, while Dawood sustained severe injuries and remains hospitalized.
This tragic incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by religious minorities in Pakistan, where accusations of blasphemy and targeted violence often leave vulnerable communities at risk. The attack has drawn condemnation from human rights activists, who have called for a thorough investigation and justice for Salman’s family.
Pakistan has a long and complex history with its minority communities, marked by violent episodes in locations such as Shanti Nagar, Gojra, Joseph Colony, Youhanabad, and Jaranwala. These incidents continue to serve as stark reminders of the discrimination and violence that minorities often face in the country.