Pakistani Catholic Church Condemns Attack on Churches and Demands Justice
The Pakistani Catholic Church has strongly condemned a recent attack on churches and Christian properties by a Muslim mob. Archbishop Joseph Arshad of Islamabad-Rawalpindi expressed his disapproval of the assault, condemning the desecration of crosses and Bibles, as well as the burning of Christian homes in the city of Jaranwala in the Faisalabad district. The attack resulted in the ransacking of at least six churches and the displacement of around 500 Christian families.
The incident occurred after two Christians were accused of blasphemy, sparking outrage among local Muslim groups. The mob targeted three Presbyterian churches, a Catholic Church, a Full Gospel Assembly Church, and a Salvation Army church, causing extensive damage to the buildings and setting some parts on fire.
Videos and photographs shared on social media depict the angry mob attacking churches, throwing bricks, and burning one of the churches. The situation escalated as the crowd cheered on a man who climbed to the roof of a church to remove the steel cross using a hammer. Despite pleas for help, the police did not intervene on time to protect the Christians.
The Archbishop, along with Protestant Bishop Azad Marshall, called for justice and immediate action from the authorities. They demanded that the Pakistani government take strict action against the perpetrators and ensure an investigation into the incident. Both religious leaders highlighted the need for social harmony and the protection of religious minorities in the country.
The incident has raised concerns about religious tensions in Pakistan, particularly regarding the issue of blasphemy. Blasphemy allegations are frequently used as a means of persecuting and discriminating against religious minorities, especially Christians. The Centre for Social Justice reports that since 1987, over 2,000 people have been accused of blasphemy, leading to the death of at least 88 individuals. Many Christians are currently facing trials and imprisonment based on false accusations.
The attack on churches in Jaranwala has further exacerbated religious tensions and threatens to strain relations between different religious communities. Christians, who make up only 1.5 percent of Pakistan’s population, already face discrimination and violence due to their economic and social status.
The interim Prime Minister of Pakistan, Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar, expressed his condemnation of the incident and assured citizens that the government would take stern action against those who violate the law or target minorities. However, the Christian community remains concerned about their safety and the need for justice to prevail.
As the Pakistani Catholic Church demands justice and an investigation into the attack, it is crucial for the government to address and prevent such incidents. Upholding social harmony, respect for religious diversity, and ensuring the security of religious buildings and individuals is vital for creating a safe environment for all citizens in Pakistan.
