Multiple churches in Faisalabad’s Jaranwala tehsil were vandalized on Wednesday over blasphemy allegations.
The Dilect: Violence Erupted in several churches that were destroyed by a furious mob driven by accusations. Blasphemy in Faisalabad’s Jaranwala tehsil. Various quarters have condemned the incident and called for action.
The mob set fire to at least five churches. And looted abandoned homes, according to Akmal Bhatti, a prominent Christian leader. Images circulated on social media depicting smoke billowing from churches and people setting furniture ablaze. The violence even spread to a Christian cemetery and a local government office.
A nearby highway was blocked by dozens of people, Violence Erupts. Among the churches targeted were the Salvation Army Church, United Presbyterian Church, Allied Foundation Church, and Shehroonwala Church. Another Christian cleaner’s home was destroyed by the mob after he was accused of blasphemy.
The Pakistan Penal Code, sections 295B and 295C related to defamation of the Holy Quran and derogatory remarks, about the Holy Prophet. Meanwhile, the police registered an initial report against the accused. Usman Anwar, Punjab’s police chief, confirmed that negotiations with protesters were underway.
The police appeared to be silent during the incident, according to Christian leaders. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) also condemned “mob-led attacks. Christian families, their homes, and places of worship in Jaranwala.
Politicians condemnations:
Various political figures condemned the violence as well. The PML-N President Shehbaz Sharif called for strict actions against those. who violate the law to honor the sacrifices of the Christian community.
What is happening in Jaranwala is sad and disturbing. There is no place for violence in any religion. All religious places, Holy Books and personages are sacred and deserve our highest level of respect. I urge the government to take action against the culprits. I also appeal to…
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) August 16, 2023
Anwaarul Haq Kakar, interim prime minister, said stern action will be taken against who violate the law.
“We have asked all law enforcement to apprehend the culprits and prosecute them. ” he said on X (formerly Twitter), ensuring that the government stood with the citizens “on an equal basis”.
I am gutted by the visuals coming out of Jaranwala,#Faisalabad. Stern action would be taken against those who violate law and target minorities. All law enforcement has been asked to apprehend culprits and bring them to justice. Rest assured that the government of Pakistan stands… https://t.co/GHWUGA1NNq
— Anwaar ul Haq Kakar (@anwaar_kakar) August 16, 2023
Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, chairman of the PPP, demanded the administration ensure the safety of the Christian community.
Horrified to hear about the attack on Churches in Jaranwala, Faisalabad, Violating the sanctity of places of worship is absolutely unacceptable. The administration must ensure the safety of the Christian community and their Churches.
— BilawalBhuttoZardari (@BBhuttoZardari) August 16, 2023
Rana Sanaullah On Violence Erupts:
Former Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah condemned the attack, pointing out that hatred and extremism undermine Islam’s fundamental principles.
Strongly condemn the dastardly attack on the church in Jaranwala today. The culprits must be brought to justice at the earliest, and the law should take its due course. Extremism and hatred nullify the fundamental principles of Islam.
— Rana SanaUllah Khan (@RanaSanaullahPK) August 16, 2023
As condemnations poured in, religious leaders visited Jaranwala to address the situation and promote understanding.
It is not an isolated incident. Similar incidents have frequently involved allegations of blasphemy. The misuse of blasphemy laws and extrajudicial actions have had tragic consequences. Over 1,400 blasphemy-related cases have claimed the lives of almost 100 individuals since Pakistan’s inception. According to a report by the Centre for Research and Security Studies.
Pakistan must address the misuse of blasphemy laws and promote religious tolerance. To maintain the safety of its citizens, and places of worship.
