News Desk
Sheikhupura, Pakistan:
A 22-year-old Christian man, Waqas Masih, remains in critical condition after being attacked at his workplace, allegedly over religious differences. The incident occurred on March 21, 2025, at Subhan Allah Paper Mills in Sheikhupura, where Masih, a contractor, was assaulted by a co-worker, Zohaib Iftikhar.
According to eyewitnesses and family members, the attack followed longstanding tensions between the two men. Masih was accused of blasphemy after collecting Islamic studies textbooks from a scrap paper dump as part of his work. During the attack, Iftikhar allegedly used a sharp blade to slash Masih’s throat. Despite severe injuries, Masih managed to stop the bleeding temporarily by tying his shirt around his neck before collapsing. He was later transported to Mayo Hospital in Lahore, where he is receiving medical treatment.
Police have registered a case under Section 324 of the Pakistan Penal Code (attempted murder), and the suspect, Iftikhar, is in custody.
Christian lawyer Sohail Gill stated that the incident highlights concerns over the misuse of Pakistan’s blasphemy laws and religious intolerance.
Human rights activists have strongly condemned the attack, calling it part of a broader pattern of religiously motivated violence.
“This was not just a random act of violence,” said Joseph Janssen, a minority rights activist. “Waqas was targeted for his identity. He was attacked like an animal in his own workplace. This is what religious extremism looks like today.”
Other activists have pointed to systemic issues that enable such attacks.
“This was an brutal execution attempt in broad daylight,” said Ashik Naz, another rights activist.
“And it’s a reflection of the failure of the authorities to dismantle extremist ideologies that thrive under their watch.”, maintained Ashik Naz
Advocacy groups have urged the government to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident, prosecute those responsible, and address underlying issues related to religious violence.
This is truly heartbreaking. No one should have to suffer such violence, especially over religious differences. Prayers for Waqas Masih’s recovery and justice. The authorities must take strict action to prevent such incidents and protect religious minorities.
We stand with Waqas and his family. Prayers for Waqas’s recovery. But the question is this where is our political members. I haven’t seen even a single political member, this is sham.
Yes, the human rights activists visiting waqas. I have seen that director HARDS, Sohail Habil is taking over this case. He has handled many cases before and I hope he will handle this case very well.