Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Kasur (Agenzia Fides) - There is a subtle instrument of oppression against Christians in Pakistan: land grabbing. It is a phenomenon that consists of systematically expropriating Christian families of their land (large plots of land, especially agricultural, but also houses). It is an abuse used by powerful individuals and large landowners. This is what the Catholic lawyer Sardar Mushtaq Gill, an activist for human rights reported to Agenzia Fides.
According to the lawyer this phenomenon is often masked by cases of blasphemy: because of false accusations, Christians are put to flight or "eliminated" in private disputes that often hide cases of "land grabbing".
The lawyer cites several recent cases: a Christian worker who lived in the area of Pattoki had left his house to go to work in a brick kiln. A Muslim man occupied his house. The Christian family tried to claim the money back but was threatened and beaten. The family has found protection in the Church of Pakistan (Anglican).
"I have seen many cases where influential Muslims are taking control of land belonging to Christian families in Punjab, with the complicity of the police. So powerful Muslim landowners and businessmen in Pakistan violate the rights of poor families and helpless religious minorities", notes lawyer Gill. "These operations are usually successful - concludes Gill - because impunity is guaranteed. We will try to defend the rights of Christians". (PA) (Agenzia Fides 16/12/2014)
