May 14, 2025
By Xari Jalil
LAHORE
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) after carrying out a fact-finding mission, has called upon the Punjab government to intervene and protect vulnerable farmers in the Derek Abad area of Kot Addu from alleged unjust eviction attempts.
Based on findings from an investigation conducted in March 2025, the rights body highlighted the precarious situation of small-scale agricultural workers in the region, most of whom are members of the Christian faith. These farmers reportedly face threats of displacement by local land acquisition networks.
The investigation was initiated following concerns raised by a religious leader in Derek Abad, who alleged that groups were attempting to seize land legitimately belonging to the Christian community, suggesting a discriminatory motive.
Rampant land grabbing
The investigating team reportedly uncovered a disturbing pattern of increasing land grabs by local influential groups. Furthermore, the organization noted a consistent failure by authorities to implement existing legal protections for these at-risk farmers. This includes a provincial revenue board instruction from 1983 acknowledging the community’s rights to the farmland they cultivate. Additionally, a directive issued in 1995 by a senior administrative official in the Muzaffargarh district affirmed the Christian community’s possession of several agricultural units, contingent on the settlement of outstanding dues, which have since been reportedly cleared.
The affected farmers informed the investigators that their legal challenge is currently before the Lahore High Court, which has issued a temporary halt to any eviction proceedings.
Farmers who interacted with the investigating team stated they have yet to receive official documentation confirming their land ownership, despite favorable court decisions.
The rights organization expressed apprehension that the lack of these official documents leaves the farmers susceptible to losing their already limited cultivated land. Such a loss, the organization warned, would likely lead to forced displacement, loss of livelihood, and increased poverty.
The rights body is pressing the Punjab government to immediately investigate these claims and provide official land ownership documents to all eligible farmers in Derek Abad. It also demanded decisive legal action against individuals and groups involved in illegal land seizures and the provision of immediate protection to the affected families, ensuring their safety and ability to work without fear of retaliation. The organization emphasized the heightened vulnerability of this Christian community and their need for recognition, legal safeguards, and redress for what it described as years of governmental neglect.