Pakistan: Christian murdered after row over religion

A 45-year-old Christian was reportedly shot dead in Pakistan following a heated argument with a local Muslim over religion.

Fides news agency reports that Roshan Masih rowed with Sohail Akhtar just days before the incident last Saturday in Lahore, Punjab Province.

It is feared that Masih's defence of the Christian faith was taken to be blasphemous and prompted the killing.

The Legal Evangelical Association Development (LEAD) reported the murder to local police, naming Akhtar as the perpetrator.

Akhtar was subsequently arrested and detained by local police, who have launched an investigation.

Sardar Mushtaq Gill, of LEAD, told Fides: "This is truly a tragedy. An innocent man is slain for defending his faith in a simple argument.

"The episode is emblematic of the conditions of Pakistani Christians.

"The authorities have a duty to guarantee the basic rights of Christian minorities."

News
Turkey should be placed on Special Watch List for barring foreign Christians, says US body
Turkey should be placed on Special Watch List for barring foreign Christians, says US body

Both US and EU institutions have raised concerns about the issue.

The prayer booklet connecting with sceptics
The prayer booklet connecting with sceptics

Christian Today speaks to Emma Weaver of trypraying to hear about how a simple prayer guide is engaging even more non-Christians in prayer for the first time.

Great British Bake Off champion gifts cake to Archbishop of Canterbury
Great British Bake Off champion gifts cake to Archbishop of Canterbury

The Archbishop of Canterbury has been presented with a commemorative cake by a recent winner of The Great British Bake Off.

Japanese Church leader warns of 'polite persecution' in the country
Japanese Church leader warns of 'polite persecution' in the country

"Religion is not recognized as a moral authority in this country and as long as we contain ourselves in the Church premises, we are considered harmless and fine.”