On 20th October, doctors successfully performed cataract surgery and fitted new lenses to restore the eyesight of Nawab Bibi (76), wife of Zafar Bhatti (56), Pakistan’s longest-serving blasphemy convict under section 295-C.
Nawab Bibi has become increasingly frail, with age-related decline and ongoing health issues like persistent high blood pressure severely impacting her vision. Last month, she confided in a BACA officer that she had fallen twice due to her deteriorating eyesight. With a heavy heart, she shared, “The only wish I now have, after Zafar’s release, is to see him and care for him in the time I have left.”
Moved by her plight, BACA arranged for Nawab Bibi to be seen at Ghurki Hospital in Lahore, where doctors diagnosed her with cataracts and recommended surgery. Preoperative tests revealed high blood pressure and a low blood cell count, prompting doctors to prescribe medication to stabilize her condition. She was asked to return after two weeks for further evaluation.
Nawab Bibi revisited the hospital with the BACA team on 17th October after following her prescribed medication. However, her blood pressure remained too high for surgery, so the doctors advised her to continue the medication and return on 19th October.
On 19th October, her blood pressure was still elevated, prompting the doctors to admit her to the hospital. They administered additional medication to stabilize her condition in preparation for surgery the following day.
On 20th October, Nawab Bibi underwent successful cataract surgery to restore her vision. She was discharged later that evening, and BACA field officer Edward Masih took her to his residence in Lahore to care for her until the bandages could be removed.
Nawab Bibi expressed her deep gratitude to BACA for covering the surgery costs, saying, “I am extremely thankful to all donors for buying the lenses and paying for the surgery. I was worried about my eyes, but I thank God and BACA for helping me regain my vision.”
Juliet Chowdhry, Trustee for the British Asian Christian Association, expressed her joy and relief following the successful cataract surgery for Nawab Bibi, despite the risks associated with her advanced age. Chowdhry said, “I am so happy that Nawab Bibi’s operation went well, even with the health challenges she faces in her elderly years. My hope is that she lives long enough to see Zafar Bhatti finally set free, as no one should have to endure such pain and separation for this long.”
Chowdhry further emphasized the urgency of Zafar Bhatti’s release, stating, “The prolonged incarceration of an innocent man demands greater international attention and pressure. We will not stop reporting on the deep-seated bias and injustice that has made this couple’s life an ongoing misery.”
We urgently call on all compassionate individuals to join us in our fight for justice for Zafar Bhatti, Pakistan’s longest-serving blasphemy convict, and his suffering wife, Nawab Bibi. After over a decade of wrongful imprisonment, Zafar remains behind bars, enduring harsh conditions, while his wife, Nawab, struggles with her health, loneliness, and financial hardships.
How You Can Help:
- Write to the UN Special Envoy
We need international voices to amplify Zafar Bhatti’s case. We are asking you to write to the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief, Ms. Nazila Ghanea, urging her to take immediate action on Zafar Bhatti’s behalf. Zafar’s conviction under Pakistan’s blasphemy laws is unjust, and international intervention is needed to secure his release.
Please send your letter to:
Ms. Nazila Ghanea
Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief
c/o Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights
United Nations at Geneva
8-14 Avenue de la Paix
CH-1211 Geneva 10
Switzerland
Your letter can help pressure international authorities to bring attention to Zafar’s plight and take action to secure his freedom.
- Donate to Support Nawab Bibi and Zafar Bhatti
Nawab Bibi, at 76 years old, is struggling with severe health problems. She recently underwent cataract surgery to restore her vision, thanks to the support of the British Asian Christian Association (BACA). However, she continues to battle high blood pressure and other medical issues, while facing financial strain. Our organization provides her with medical treatment, housing support, and groceries to ensure she can survive these difficult times.
Zafar himself is in dire need of support while in prison, where even basic necessities can be difficult to obtain. Your donations help provide him with food, medical care, and the hope that one day justice will prevail.
Please consider donating to support Zafar Bhatti and Nawab Bibi. Your contribution will make a direct impact by providing much-needed assistance for their medical treatment, housing, and daily needs. Every donation brings us one step closer to seeing Zafar freed and reuniting him with his beloved wife. You can find a number of options for donating (here)
