Thrown in Jail for Praying and Sharing the Gospel
On March 23, 2021, Pastor Keshab received a call from a man requesting prayer for his sick wife. In response, Pastor Keshab invited the man to come to his house for prayer. When the knock at the door came later, four police officers were there to arrest him.
Keshab was released on April 8, only to be arrested again because he had been distributing Gospel tracts. On November 30, a district court in Nepal sentenced Pastor Keshab to two years in prison for “outraging religious feelings” and “proselytizing”.
Now, Keshab needs your help! If you’re able, will you give a gift today to support Pastor Keshab’s defense?
Nepal’s constitution guarantees religious freedom, but the justice system often does not reflect that fact. That is why ADF International, along with local allies, is fighting to clear Keshab’s name.
Reflecting on almost three months of imprisonment before his sentencing, Pastor Keshab said: “It was very difficult for me. I would think of my little children and my wife, and I would cry out to the Lord in prayer.” Thankfully, he was released on bail while the case continues, so he is able to be with his wife and children for now.
"No one should live in fear of being arrested, oppressed or criminally charged for sharing their religious beliefs. We are glad that bail was granted in Pastor Keshab’s case and that he will be home with his family for Christmas. No one should be sentenced for praying and sharing the gospel. So, we hope the court will uphold religious freedom when it considers Pastor Keshab’s appeal. We urge the Nepalese government to ensure that all persons are able to freely practice and profess their faith by safeguarding fundamental freedoms in line with their international commitments."