Islamabad, Aug 4 (NationPress) A Christian sanitation worker is currently battling for his life after suffering a brutal attack in Punjab, Pakistan, as reported by a prominent minority rights organization on Monday.

The Voice of Pakistan Minority (VOPM) highlighted that in Sadiqabad, a Christian worker, who relies on his daily labor, was struck in the head with a brick, "not for any offense, but simply for saying no."

"While performing his duties—cleaning the streets of a city that often overlooks his humanity—he was asked to dispose of personal waste from a powerful local's property. Upon his refusal, asserting that it was beyond his responsibilities, he faced immediate and horrific retaliation. His blood stained the very streets he worked to keep clean," the organization stated.

They further reported that the worker remains in critical condition at a local medical facility, fighting for survival, while the community remains silent regarding the incident.

This attack serves as a harsh reminder that the lives of sanitation workers are still considered "expendable." Workers involved in the 'Suthra Punjab' initiative organized a peaceful sit-in protest against the violence, pledging not to resume their duties until their generations of humiliation and suffering are acknowledged.

"Our community has been maintaining this city for decades, yet we are treated as if we are worthless. When we raise our voices, we are silenced by bricks and threats," one elderly worker was quoted as saying by VOPM.

The rights organization pointed out that the sanitation workforce in Pakistan, predominantly from the Christian minority, is trapped in a "perpetual cycle of systemic abuse."

In the harsh sunlight, the workers cried out, "How long must we clean your mess before you recognize our humanity?"

VOPM raised alarms, stating, "These workers wade through sewage, remove waste, and inhale decay. Yet, instead of being appreciated, they are met with insults, distrust, and now, violence."

The LEAD Ministries Pakistan, an advocacy group for the victim, indicated that such incidents occur with alarming frequency. Most cases go unnoticed, remaining buried like the "suffering of those who endure them."

Sardar Mushtaq Gill, the founder of LEAD Ministries, urged the Pakistani government to take action through prosecutions rather than mere promises.

According to VOPM, the protest will persist until justice is achieved.

This incident is yet another addition to the ongoing violence and discrimination faced by minorities in Pakistan.