Every year on October 2nd, the world commemorates the International Day of Non-Violence, a day dedicated to promoting peace and rejecting violence. The date, chosen to honour the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, is a reminder of his philosophy of nonviolent resistance, which has inspired movements for justice and human rights across the world. However, for many Christians in Pakistan, this day is not just a moment of reflection but also a painful reminder of the violence they endure simply for practicing their faith.
Christians in Pakistan, a minority
in a predominantly Muslim country, have long faced discrimination,
marginalization, and violence. Despite the principles of peace and non-violence
being central to Christianity, this community continues to suffer from systemic
persecution. The challenges Christians face in Pakistan highlight the harsh
reality that non-violence is not just an ideal but a survival strategy in the
face of constant threats.
The recent cases of forced
conversions, abductions, and attacks on Christian communities are sobering
examples of how deeply rooted intolerance has become. The blasphemy laws, in
particular, have been weaponized to target Christians. Accusations under these
laws, often based on false claims, lead to mob violence, arrests, and even
executions. Christian families are left to flee their homes, hide their
children, and live in fear, knowing that any misstep, or even a simple
misunderstanding, can lead to deadly consequences.
In a country where justice often
eludes the marginalized, non-violence for Christians is not a choice but a
forced way of life. Responding with violence, no matter how provoked, would
only further endanger their lives and make them more vulnerable to state and
vigilante action. Yet, the path of non-violence is not passive. It requires
immense courage, strength, and resilience to endure the daily threats to life,
property, and dignity, all while striving to uphold Christian principles of
peace, forgiveness, and love.
The recent abduction of Christian
girls, such as the case of 12-year-old Saneha, underscores the urgency for more
concrete measures to protect this vulnerable community. Saneha was kidnapped
near her home while performing a simple errand. Her story is one of
many—Christian girls are often forcibly converted and married off to Muslim men
against their will. Families are left devastated, fighting legal battles they
rarely win, as the system often sides with the perpetrators rather than the
victims.
For these families, the
International Day of Non-Violence is not just about philosophical ideals. It is
a cry for help, a desperate plea for protection, and a call for the
international community to take notice. The Pakistani government, which bears
the responsibility of protecting all its citizens, has failed to provide
security and justice to its Christian minority. Instead, impunity reigns, and
the perpetrators of violence, whether individuals or mobs, walk free.
In this context, human rights organizations and Christian
advocacy groups have an essential role to play. Their work in documenting cases
of violence, raising awareness, and lobbying for legal reforms is critical. But
more is needed. The international community, particularly countries with strong
Christian populations, must amplify their voices. Diplomatic pressure, economic
sanctions, and targeted campaigns for justice can go a long way in ensuring
that Pakistan honours its commitments to human rights and the protection of its
minorities.
For Christians in Pakistan, the
legacy of non-violence extends beyond just resisting physical harm. It is about
standing firm in their faith despite overwhelming odds. Many Christians
continue to practice their religion, attend church services, and celebrate
their religious holidays, knowing full well that these acts could make them
targets of violence. Their bravery is a testament to the power of non-violence,
even in the face of hostility and oppression.
The church, too, plays a crucial
role in supporting its community. In many Christian neighbourhoods, churches
serve not only as places of worship but also as safe havens where the community
can gather, seek support, and find solace in their shared faith. Pastors and
religious leaders, aware of the risks, continue to lead their congregations,
preaching messages of peace, forgiveness, and resilience, even when faced with
threats to their lives.
However, the burden of non-violence should not rest solely
on the shoulders of Pakistan’s Christian community. The government, civil
society, and international bodies must step up to protect those who are
vulnerable. Legal reforms are desperately needed to repeal or amend blasphemy
laws, which are often used as tools of oppression. Law enforcement agencies
must be held accountable for failing to protect minority communities and for
allowing mob violence to go unpunished. Educational programs promoting tolerance,
interfaith dialogue, and human rights can help address the deep-seated
prejudices that fuel much of the violence against Christians.
On this International Day of Non-Violence, the world must
not forget the plight of Christians in Pakistan. Their struggle for survival,
justice, and dignity is a call to action for all who believe in the principles
of peace and non-violence. While the Christian community in Pakistan continues
to practice resilience in the face of violence, it is time for the global
community to recognize their suffering and take meaningful steps to protect
them.
Non-violence, as practiced by Christians in Pakistan, is not
just a theoretical ideal. It is a daily reality, shaped by the need to survive
in a hostile environment. Their strength, despite enduring years of violence
and persecution, should serve as a powerful reminder to the world of the
importance of standing with those who are oppressed. As we commemorate the
International Day of Non-Violence, let us honour their resilience and renew our
commitment to fighting for a world where no one has to live in fear because of
their faith.