A Christian worker, Michael, employed as a cleaner in a government department in Sialkot, has reported sustained religious harassment, coercion, and threats after refusing pressure to convert to Islam—underscoring persistent concerns about religious freedom and workplace discrimination faced by minorities in Pakistan.
According to Michael, a senior officer at the Bureau of Statistics repeatedly summoned him to his office and urged him to “embrace Islam,” claiming that conversion would help facilitate a marriage for another individual who had recently converted. Michael firmly declined, stating that faith is a personal matter and that he wished to remain Christian.
Following his refusal, Michael alleges a sharp deterioration in his working conditions. He reports verbal abuse, public humiliation, and being assigned demeaning tasks unrelated to his official duties. He further claims the officer attempted to change his name to a Muslim one and compelled him to perform unpaid domestic labour at the officer’s residence—including cleaning washrooms, washing vehicles, and other household chores—over several years.
Michael says the situation escalated into intimidation and physical threats. Fearing retaliation and the possible misuse of blasphemy allegations, he felt compelled to resign to protect his life and dignity. Even after resigning, he alleges the harassment continued through late-night calls and messages demanding his return to work.
The case drew urgent attention from our team in Pakistan, working on behalf of CLAAS-UK, which intervened swiftly to provide legal and protective support. Following engagement with senior authorities, Michael was transferred to the departmental head office, where he has been assured security, protection, and a safe working environment.
CLAAS-UK will continue to monitor the case closely to ensure Michael’s rights, safety, and freedom of religion are fully respected—standing with him and others who refuse to abandon their faith under pressure.
