Multiple churches in the Jaranwala tehsil of Faisalabad were vandalised by an enraged mob on Wednesday following allegations of blasphemy. The incident has raised concerns over religious tensions in the area. No arrests have been made as of now.
According to Akmal Bhatti, a Christian leader, the mob vandalised at least five churches and looted valuables from abandoned houses. The mob’s actions were incited by announcements made in local mosques. Pictures circulating on social media showed smoke rising from the church buildings and people setting fire to furniture that had been dragged out. The mob also vandalised a Christian cemetery and the local government office. Moreover, they demolished the house of a Christian cleaner who was accused of blasphemy.
Efforts are being made to contain the situation by engaging with peace committees and activating the police across the province. However, the assistant commissioner of the area, who is a member of the Christian community, had to be evacuated after facing hostility from the mob.
Religious leaders have visited Jaranwala to address the situation and foster an environment of understanding. They emphasized the shared responsibility of safeguarding worship places and residences of all communities. The Pakistan Ulema Council and International Interfaith Harmony Council stated that the state has a responsibility to protect religious places.
The incident has received widespread condemnation from political leaders, religious organizations, and human rights activists. They have demanded swift action against the culprits and measures to ensure the safety of the Christian community. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan has called for the identification and punishment of the perpetrators to the fullest extent of the law. They have also urged the government to establish special police forces to protect religious minorities’ worship places.
This incident is not an isolated one in Pakistan, as accusations of blasphemy have led to violence against religious minorities in the past. A recent report revealed that since 1947, almost 100 people have been killed over blasphemy allegations in the country. The misuse of blasphemy laws and the failure of the state to protect religious minorities have raised concerns about the rise of extremism and intolerance.
It is crucial for the government to take decisive action to address these issues, ensure the safety and rights of all citizens, and promote harmony among different religious communities.