Pakistan’s Capital Development Authority (CDA) recently launched a massive “anti-encroachment” drive to reclaim land in the country’s capital, Islamabad — much of which is occupied by Christians.

The government argues that these “atchi abadis,” or informal settlements, are illegal and impede the construction of new roads and city expansion. However, for those living there, these are not just “illegal spots,” they are homes where they have lived for decades. 

Nearly 40 informal settlements throughout Islamabad house roughly 450,000 people. About half of these neighborhoods have large Christian populations.  

An estimated 25,000 Christians live in just three colonies: Rimsha Colony (H-9), Allama Iqbal Colony (G-7), and Akram Gill Colony. They are often the city’s essential workers, serving as cleaners, laborers, and domestic helpers. 

Growing tension turned into tragedy in mid-April in Noorpur Shahan, near the Bari Imam shrine. When the CDA arrived with bulldozers to destroy homes, residents who had nowhere else to go stood their ground. About 500 residents fought back to protect their families. The clash became violent, with police using tear gas and residents throwing stones. Two government vehicles were burned, and at least eight police officers and many villagers were injured. 

Despite the resistance, the CDA successfully demolished nearly 200 houses in a single day. Afterward, the police arrested more than 350 people, citing the country’s strict anti-terrorism laws. 

On April 16, the Federal Constitutional Court issued an historic order that brought the bulldozers to a halt. Chief Justice Aminuddin Khan told the CDA to stop the evictions. He gave the government 30 days to create a legal way to recognize or legitimize the neighborhoods. The court also ruled that “no one can be evicted overnight” and that the government must provide another place to live if they are moved. 

The Christian community has welcomed this judgment with great joy and relief. Archbishop Joseph Arshad called it a “significant step” toward justice, reminding everyone that these residents are equal citizens who deserve dignity and legal protection. 

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