Christian Father and Children Forced Into Hiding Amid Coercive Conversion Threats

Yasir Masih, a devoted Christian and father of two, finds himself in a precarious situation as he and his children have been compelled to go into hiding, facing relentless threats of violence unless they convert to Islam.

The ordeal began when Yasir’s wife, influenced by his aunt, clandestinely converted to Islam several months ago. Yasir’s aunt, a Muslim, attempted to entice him into converting with promises of monetary rewards and a new residence, but Yasir steadfastly refused.

In response to his wife’s conversion, she left their family home but conspired with Yasir’s aunt and local Muslim individuals to exert pressure on him to embrace Islam.

Recently, Yasir received a message from his wife requesting a meeting. Upon arriving at the designated location, he was confronted by a gathering of 150 to 200 Muslims. In an unsettling turn of events, they placed a firearm and a sum of money on the table, attempting to persuade him to convert to Islam. Additional inducements were offered, including the promise of a new house.

When Yasir attempted to leave, they issued ominous warnings, conveying that dire consequences awaited him and his children if he continued to resist conversion.

The situation escalated further when they questioned Yasir’s eldest daughter, inquiring about her preference between living with her mother or father. Her response, expressing her desire to remain with “Jesus Pappa,” infuriated them. However, they ultimately permitted Yasir and his children to depart.

Desperate for assistance, Yasir turned to the police for help. Unfortunately, his pleas were disregarded, despite his wife’s confession in a statement that she had administered poison to him and their children.

Yasir’s plight has garnered the attention of Pakistani news anchor Haroon Yousaf, who has appealed to human rights organizations to intervene. He staunchly defended the fundamental right of all individuals to freely choose their religion and stressed that no one should be coerced into accepting Islam.

In the face of relentless pressure and threats, Yasir and his children have been forced into hiding, with the support of the organization CLAAS.