Structural persecution of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat continues

55, was shot on December 29, 2025, in Joharabad (Khushab District, Punjab), and the investigation has so far yielded no results. This once again highlights the precarious security situation of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Pakistan. An unknown assailant on a motorcycle approached Virk from behind as he was walking home and fired at him. The bullet penetrated the 55-year-old’s back and exited in his abdomen. Despite severe internal injuries, the victim survived: Virk was taken to the District Headquarters Hospital and underwent emergency surgery. His family had previously received repeated threats.

An attack in the context of organized hostility

Khushab region has been a hotspot of extremist mobilization against Ahmadis for years. Local groups systematically attempt to obstruct the religious practice of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat, particularly the holding of Friday prayers at the Joharabad Work House. This targeted interference creates a social climate in which attacks are a constant threat. The attack on Virk fits seamlessly into this pattern and confirms the assessment that Ahmadis in certain regions of Pakistan are at heightened risk.

Failure of state protection mechanisms

The investigation is stalled: So far, no suspects have been identified, nor have any arrests been made. There are fears that this serious crime will go unpunished. Recurring patterns of impunity violate fundamental human rights obligations. Pakistan is obligated under international law to protect the life and safety of all its citizens, regardless of their religion. The authorities’ inaction sends a clear message: Violence against Ahmadis goes unpunished and is thus effectively tolerated.

Structural persecution – not an isolated incident

The Virk case highlights several problems: Religious freedom is restricted through societal persecution and institutional discrimination. The influence of extremists, the lack of state protection mechanisms, and impunity endanger the lives and safety of members of religious minorities such as the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat and expose inequality before the law.

This situation exhibits the characteristics of structural persecution. It is an expression of deeply entrenched institutional failure and not the result of isolated incidents. The International Society for Human Rights (ISHR) calls for an independent and transparent investigation into the attempted murder, consistent prosecution, and effective protection measures for the Virk family and the Ahmadiyya Muslims in Joharabad.

Saba Rana, Human Rights Expert
ISHR, Ahmadiyya Muslim Lawyers Association