Shillong, August 16: A series of attacks targeted churches in the Jaranwala tehsil of Faisalabad, Pakistan, following accusations of blasphemy.
A mob set fire to multiple churches and looted deserted homes, reacting to provocative announcements.
As per IANS, Christian leader Akmal Bhatti revealed that the damaged churches included the Salvation Army Church, United Presbyterian Church, Allied Foundation Church, and Shehroonwala Church. Additionally, the residence of a Christian cleaner accused of blasphemy was demolished.
The Punjab province’s police chief, Usman Anwar, stated that negotiations were underway with the protestors, and the affected area was secured. Efforts were in place to control the situation through peace committees, and police forces across the province were activated. Meanwhile, Christian leaders criticized the police’s passive stance.
President Bishop of the Church of Pakistan, Azad Marshall, reported that Bibles were desecrated, and Christians were subjected to mistreatment and false accusations of violating the Holy Quran. Former senator Afrasiab Khattak condemned the incident, emphasizing the need to bring the culprits to justice. Balochistan Senator Sarfaraz Bughti urged the Punjab government to protect churches and Christian communities effectively.
The situation prompted a request for Rangers’ deployment in the area, though a decision was pending.
