Gujranwala, January 2, 2025 — A tragic incident unfolded in Kot Asadullah, Gakhar Mandi, Gujranwala, claiming the life of a 25-year-old Christian youth, Suleman Iqbal, who was the sole breadwinner for his family. Suleman, a contract harvester working in the fields for the past six years, was the eldest son and the primary support for his parents and siblings.

On December 29, 2024, Suleman stepped outside his home to purchase some goods when he was ambushed by Abdul Rehman and his accomplices. The attack, reportedly rooted in a land dispute between the two parties, escalated into violence. During the altercation, Suleman was shot in the stomach, and his younger brother Dawood, who was also attacked, narrowly survived his injuries.

Suleman was rushed to Civil Hospital in Gujranwala, where he remained under treatment until December 31. Despite the efforts of medical professionals, he succumbed to his injuries on January 1, 2025, leaving his grieving family devastated.

Speaking to the Pak Christian News (PCN), Suleman’s family recounted the ordeal and appealed to the Punjab government and Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for justice. “This is not the first time we have faced such an attack,” they said. “In October 2024, we suffered a financial loss of 2 million PKR due to similar violence, but no action was taken, and the police failed to cooperate with us.”

The family, overwhelmed with grief, demanded immediate action to stop the ongoing cruelty and injustice against them. “We lost our young son, who was the backbone of our family. We pray and plead that such atrocities come to an end,” they added.

The Gujranwala Cantt Police Station has registered a case and initiated an investigation. Circle DSP assured the media that efforts to apprehend the suspects were underway. “Four police teams are actively pursuing the accused. God willing, they will be arrested very soon and brought to justice,” the DSP stated.

This tragic incident highlights the vulnerability of minority communities in Pakistan, often caught in the crosshairs of disputes that escalate into violence. Suleman’s death serves as a grim reminder of the need for urgent action to address such injustices and ensure the safety and rights of all Minorities.

The family’s plea for justice has resonated with many, and all eyes are now on the authorities to see if they will fulfil their promise to bring the perpetrators to account.