Citizens set fire outside the house of the suspected culprit accused of blasphemy, also attempted to set the house on fire (Photo: Video screenshot)
Sargodha: A person lost his life due to the violent mob during an incident of alleged desecration of the Holy Quran in Mujahid Colony, while the police registered a case against the suspected blasphemer under anti-terrorism laws.
According to Express News, senior police officials, including the DPO, also arrived at the scene and attempted to control the violent mob. Citizens set fire outside the house of the suspected culprit accused of blasphemy, also attempted to set the house on fire. The police arrested several individuals involved in the violent mob.
DPO Dr. Asad Ijaz had informed that search operations are ongoing throughout the area, and those inciting violence will be arrested through CCTV footage. He urged the public not to let go of patience and assured that strict action will be taken against those involved in the incident.
The police arrested multiple demonstrators with the help of CCTV footage and mobile cameras. After the incident, IG Punjab Usman Anwar arrived at the scene and reassured the affected individuals, stating that the respect for Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the Holy Quran is part of our faith.
Regarding this matter, existing laws are in place and it is the state’s responsibility to enforce them. Usman Anwar stated that if people take the law into their own hands in such matters, it tarnishes the country’s reputation. Our SP, DPO, and entire police force have courageously brought the situation under control together. If anyone takes the law into their hands or spreads terror, action will be taken against them.
He stated that if anyone disrespects the Holy Quran, a case has already been registered against them. Our approach towards individuals involved in the incident is clear; the innocent will not be punished, and the guilty will not be spared. IG Punjab mentioned that life has returned to normal in the area after the incident, and tomorrow will be a normal day.
On this occasion, the RP and DPO of Sargodha were also present, who briefed on the details of the incident and took necessary actions to ensure law and order. Meetings were also held with officers assigned to security duties by IG Punjab.
Dr. Usman Anwar also met with representatives of the District Peace Committee and the Christian community and praised the police for saving lives of the citizens by putting their lives at risk. He stated that the timely response and action of Sargodha police have prevented major losses, and a solid action plan is being put in place to prevent such incidents.
Case registered for the incident
A case has been registered in Sargodha for the incident under the anti-terrorism laws. Muhammad Jahangir, a resident of Mujahid Colony, claimed in the FIR that a person named Nazir committed blasphemy against the Holy Quran.
Human rights commission issues suo-motu notice, requests report
On the other hand, the National Commission for Human Rights has taken suo-motu notice of the Sargodha incident and requested a report from the DPO Sargodha. The commission has emphasized to the provincial government to ensure protection of the Christian community in Sargodha and the entire province and stated that one person lost his life in the clash.
It has been reported in the press release that representatives of the National Commission for Human Rights are in contact with Sargodha police and other law enforcement agencies.