Lahore, September 26, 2024 – The Lahore Sessions Court has sentenced Muhammad Arif, a Muslim security guard, to death for the murder of 22-year-old Neha Arshad, a Christian woman. The verdict, delivered by Additional Sessions Judge Riaz Ahmed, brings to an end a nearly three-year legal battle following Neha’s tragic death in November 2021.

Neha Arshad, a devoted Christian with deep faith, worked as a senior staff member at Pearl Continental Hotel in Lahore. She consistently resisted the advances of Muhammad Arif, who worked as a security guard in her neighborhood. Arif, angered by Neha's refusal to marry him due to her Christian beliefs, grew increasingly aggressive. Despite Neha’s repeated rejection, citing her unwillingness to marry outside her faith, the harassment escalated.

On the night of November 27, 2021, after returning home from work, Neha was confronted by Arif at the gate of her residence. During a heated argument, Arif pulled out a firearm and shot Neha in the neck. Nearby residents rushed to assist, but tragically, Neha died at the scene. According to witnesses, Neha’s final words identified Arif as the shooter.

The Ghalib Market Police registered the case under FIR No. 2322/2021, filed by Neha’s brother-in-law, Baber Gill. Arif was arrested shortly after but pleaded not guilty, claiming Neha had committed suicide—an argument the court ultimately rejected.

Neha’s mother, Khalida, who had worked as a domestic helper for 22 years, described her daughter as a bright and ambitious young woman with unwavering Christian values. "Neha stood firm in her faith and refused to compromise her religious beliefs," Khalida said.

The family received legal assistance from the Centre for Legal Aid Assistance and Settlement (CLAAS), which played a crucial role in ensuring justice. CLAAS’s lawyer, Tahir Bashir, explained that the trial faced several delays, particularly due to Arif’s attempts to secure post-arrest bail and another lawyer’s failure to appear regularly. However, at the family’s request, CLAAS took over the case, contested Arif’s bail, and provided vital legal support throughout the trial.

"The case faced multiple challenges, but we remained committed to ensuring that justice was served," said Tahir Bashir. "The court carefully reviewed the evidence, including witness testimonies and forensic reports, and ruled that Arif’s claim of suicide could not be substantiated. It was proven beyond doubt that Neha was murdered."

This case has attracted significant attention, highlighting the dangers faced by Christian women in Pakistan, particularly in cases involving religious persecution and unwanted advances. The ruling is considered a landmark judgment in the fight for justice for Pakistan’s minority communities.

While Neha’s family expressed relief at the court’s decision, they continue to mourn the loss of their daughter. "Justice has been served, but it cannot bring Neha back," Khalida said after the verdict.

This case serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by Pakistan’s Christian community, as they continue to navigate societal pressures and seek justice in an often-hostile environment.