Rome, Italy — Report
During a dignified address to members of the Italian Parliament and government representatives, Adan Farhaj Bakhsh, Director of Foreign Affairs for Pakistanis Christians in Italy, paid heartfelt tribute to martyred Federal Minister Shahbaz Bhatti on his 15th death anniversary.
He described the occasion as a “journey of the soul,” stating that although terrorists tried to silence Shahbaz Bhatti 15 years ago, they failed. “Today, his voice echoes stronger than ever,” he said. He emphasized that true harmony does not mean the absence of differences, but the beauty of living together despite them, adding that imposing faith through violence is a defeat of humanity.
Concern Over Humanitarian Crisis in Islamabad
In his speech, Adan Bakhsh drew international attention to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Islamabad. He strongly condemned the forced eviction orders affecting historic Christian settlements such as Rimsha Colony and Sharper Colony, calling them “cruel injustice.”
He highlighted that these communities consist of hardworking citizens who contribute to the functioning of the city, yet are now being labeled as illegal occupants in their own homeland. Raising a critical question, he said:
“If a poor family’s home is demolished without providing alternative shelter, where is human dignity?”
He further expressed concern that despite observations by the Supreme Court of Pakistan, families are still being threatened with displacement, a situation he said cannot be ignored.
International Diplomatic Response
Referring to growing international concern, Adan Bakhsh noted that the UK Parliamentary Group (APPG), led by Honorable Jim Shannon, has formally written to the Chief Justice of Pakistan urging an immediate halt to the demolitions.
He expressed pride that such global mobilization has become possible due to the unity of the Pakistani Christian diaspora. He also mentioned the formation of APCO (Alliance of Pakistani Christian Organizations) in the United Kingdom, calling it a historic platform that is now expanding globally as a model of unity.
Call to Italian Lawmakers
At the conclusion of his address, Adan Farhaj urged Italian lawmakers to make human rights a fundamental condition in all engagements with Pakistan. He thanked Italy for being a refuge of hope and pledged to continue the struggle against discrimination in the name of Shahbaz Bhatti.
“Shahbaz Bhatti is watching us and encouraging us not to give up,” he said.
The speech concluded with poetic verses in memory of the martyred leader, leaving a deep emotional impact on the audience.