Christian Inmates In Pakistan Upset Over Jail Church Closure

By Stefan J. Bos, Chief International Correspondent Worthy News

ISLAMABAD (Worthy News) – There was concern Wednesday about a jail near Pakistan’s capital, where Christian inmates have been “banned from attending church activities” except for a limited two-hour window on Sundays, well-informed sources told Worthy News.

The situation in Adyala Jail, located in Rawalpindi near Islamabad, “raises serious concerns about religious freedom and the rights of minority communities in Pakistan,” said Christian human rights lawyer Xavier William in an interview with Worthy News.

“The authorities claim that the reason is that an inmate escaped. But that was due to the negligence of the jail staff. Instead of working on security, they closed the Church,” added the lawyer who represents several believers in court.

William, who knows the situation inside the prison, told Worthy News on Wednesday there are some 200 inmates identifying as Christians in the overcrowded jail, including three held on charges of blasphemy against Islam.

He suggested the situation in the Adyala Jail underscores broader concerns about Pakistan as “Religious discrimination is increasing” in the Islamic nation.

“The closure of the Adyala Jail Church following an inmate’s escape appears to be a disproportionate response, disproportionately affecting the over 200 Christian inmates who rely on the church for worship, prayer, and spiritual growth.”

LENT SEASON

He added that it has been especially tough for those observing the Lent season—“a time of deep religious significance” for these Christians

“The restriction not only violates the inmates’ fundamental right to practice their faith. It also undermines their ability to observe important religious traditions, such as spending extended time in prayer and reflection during Easter” when the resurrection of Christ Jesus from death is observed, he added

“This decision seems to target the Christian minority, as the ban coincides with a critical period in their religious calendar. While security concerns are valid, especially given the presence of high-profile political detainees, these measures should not come at the cost of infringing on the religious rights of inmates.”

Christians said William’s condemnation highlights the need “for immediate intervention” by the Minister of Prisons and other relevant authorities.

“It is imperative that the jail management revisits this decision, ensures the church is reopened, and allows Christian inmates to practice their faith without undue restrictions. Balancing security measures with the protection of religious freedoms is essential to uphold the principles of justice and equality in Pakistan,” he stressed.

The reported troubles faced by Christian inmates underscored international concern about the plight of the estimated 4.5 million Christians comprising roughly 1.8 percent of Pakistan’s population.

WORLD WATCH

The country ranks 8th on the advocacy group Open Doors annual World Watch List of 50 nations where it says it is most difficult to be a Christian.

“Pakistan’s notorious blasphemy laws are often used to target minority groups, but Christians are disproportionately affected,” the group added, referring to believers such as several held in Adyala Jail.

“Indeed, roughly a quarter of all blasphemy accusations target Christians. Blasphemy laws carry a death sentence,” Open Doors added, with numerous Christians waiting years on death row.

“While this [death penalty] is seldom carried out, people accused of blasphemy are vulnerable to attack or murder by mobs. In June 2024, an elderly man was killed by mob violence after being accused of desecrating the Koran” deemed a holy book by Muslims, the group stressed.

“The 2023 attack on Christian homes and buildings in Jaranwala continues to contribute to a climate of fear. Historical churches have relative freedom for worship and other activities. However, they are heavily monitored and have been targeted for bomb attacks,” Open Doors added.

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