Pakistan is an ethnically and religiously diverse country however the majority (96.5%) of the population is Muslim. This major numerical difference in population many times leads to the minority groups to be unfairly underrepresented, underserved and sometimes persecuted against.
Christians being the largest majority in Pakistan are persecuted against due to their religious beliefs. This matter has been brought to light through international media outlets. The Blasphemy laws of Pakistan are with prejudice used to torture and kill Christians in Punjab. Many times people use these laws for their own personal vendettas and religious prejudice.
STEP believes in a equal and fair society which the founder of our country Quaid-e-Azam fought for. We believe that despite the difference in religious believes we are all human being and it is important that we serve each other and help each other grow as a whole society and not be divided and turning against each other.
During the altercation that occurred 30th July of 2009 where Christians in city of Gojra were accused of blasphemy and the Muslims in the city rioted and burnt off a whole Christian neighbourhood and a neighbouring Christian village. The incident came with a cost of lives and many serious injuries. Christians were left without homes, hiding for their lives. Once the situation had calmed down STEP Organization went and analyzed the situation. The people affected were in extreme need of aid and assistance. We were able to help families by providing essential foods items, clothing, tents etc. Even after the government aid of just over 1000 USD, people were still starving and struggling therefore we continued our support for them over a year until the people were able to stand back on their feet.
STEP continues to aid families affected by such incidents and it is our goal to provide free legal assistance to those who are in police custody due to false allegations of blasphemy and cannot afford an attorney or are refused their legal and basic rights.
