Chairman Basharat Masih Khokhar: A Life of Courage and Advocacy
Early Life and Commitment to Justice
Basharat Masih Khokhar was born into a Christian family in Islamabad, Pakistan. From a young age, he was deeply moved by the injustices faced by religious minorities in his country. His early experiences fueled a lifelong dedication to defending the rights of the marginalized and voiceless.
A Defining Moment: The Rimsha Masih Case
In 2012, Basharat’s commitment to justice led him to play a pivotal role in the Rimsha Masih blasphemy case. Rimsha, a young Christian girl, was falsely accused of blasphemy, a charge that could have led to her execution. Basharat, then serving as a police constable, took immediate action to protect her. He escorted Rimsha from the jail to a safe location, shielding her from potential harm. His bravery and dedication were instrumental in ensuring her safety during a time of intense national and international scrutiny.aljazeera.com+4wtvr.com+4oneway2day.com+4
“I have seen him running in the court premises during the sun and rain. Basharat Masih Khokhar is a wonderful man having a heart for Christians.”
— Akram Gill, Pakistan’s Minister of State for National Harmony sightmagazine.com.au+1oneway2day.com+1
Advocacy and Leadership
Beyond his role in the Rimsha Masih case, Basharat has been a steadfast advocate for the rights of religious minorities in Pakistan. He has worked alongside prominent figures such as Shahbaz Bhatti, the late Federal Minister for Minorities, and his brother Dr. Paul Bhatti, to promote interfaith harmony and justice. Following Shahbaz Bhatti’s tragic assassination in 2011, Basharat continued his advocacy efforts, despite facing personal threats and challenges.christianitytoday.com+2oneway2day.com+2oneway2day.com+2
Founding the Community Development Foundation
In 2015, driven by his passion for social justice, Basharat founded the Community Development Foundation (CDF). CDF is dedicated to advocating for the rights of religious minorities, providing legal assistance to victims of blasphemy accusations, and promoting interfaith dialogue and understanding. Under his leadership, CDF has become a beacon of hope for many facing persecution and discrimination.
Personal Struggles and Continued Commitment
Throughout his journey, Basharat has faced numerous challenges, including personal threats and legal battles. In 2008, he was falsely accused under Pakistan’s blasphemy laws, a charge that was later dismissed. Despite these hardships, his resolve has remained unshaken. His unwavering commitment to justice continues to inspire many in Pakistan and around the world.
A Legacy of Courage and Compassion
Basharat Masih Khokhar’s life is a testament to the power of individual courage in the face of systemic injustice. His dedication to defending the rights of the oppressed and his tireless efforts to promote a just society have left an indelible mark on the landscape of human rights advocacy in Pakistan.