Introduction
Prosecution Watch News has investigated the case of Daud Zafar, a Christian resident of Sargodha, Pakistan, who has faced both forced conversion pressures and a blasphemy FIR lodged against him. This report documents the struggles of his life, his connection to the legacy of Shahbaz Bhatti, and the systematic challenges faced by Christians in Pakistan.
Legacy of Shahbaz Bhatti and Its Impact
When Shahbaz Bhatti, Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Minorities Affairs, was assassinated in 2011, the Christian community lost one of its strongest defenders. Bhatti had fearlessly highlighted several blasphemy cases, including the internationally known case of Asia Bibi. His assassination in Islamabad’s I-8 sector, where he was shot with 22 bullets, was claimed by Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) after months of threats.
For Daud Zafar, Bhatti’s martyrdom was a personal turning point. He recalls that moment as the day when Christians in Pakistan felt silenced and abandoned. Initially, Daud himself was fearful and reluctant to speak about religious issues. However, inspired by Bhatti’s sacrifice, he gradually found the courage to continue his struggle.
Discrimination in Daily Life
The report documents how Daud Zafar experienced social and professional discrimination as a Christian:
At workplaces, he was denied fair opportunities simply because of his faith.
He was humiliated in social settings, excluded from meals, and told to sit separately.
These experiences reflected the broader structural discrimination faced by Christians in Pakistan.
Forced Conversion Pressure
One of the most troubling incidents occurred when a classmate and business acquaintance, Hafiz Abdul Rahman from Sargodha, allegedly pressured Daud Zafar to convert to Islam. According to Daud’s testimony, the offer was presented as a way to gain ease in life and protection from hardship.
This attempt at forced conversion created significant tension for him and his family, marking the beginning of a series of threats and challenges.
Blasphemy FIR – January 2024
Prosecution Watch has verified through official records that on 4–5 January 2024, a blasphemy FIR was registered against Daud Zafar at Thana Cantt, Sargodha.
The FIR was filed under Section 295c of the Pakistan Penal Code.
The case placed Daud and his family under immediate risk, as blasphemy allegations in Pakistan often lead to mob violence, imprisonment without trial, and long-term persecution.
While the allegation itself remains unproven, the impact of the FIR on his safety and livelihood has been devastating.
This case reflects the weaponization of blasphemy laws against vulnerable Christians.
Faith and Resilience
Despite being a target of both forced conversion pressures and a blasphemy FIR, Daud Zafar has remained steadfast in his Christian faith. His testimony emphasizes that he draws strength from God and continues to hold on to hope even in the face of persecution.
“As long as I live, I will stand firm in Christ. I will not give up my faith, no matter the threats or false cases against me.” – Daud Zafar
