LAHORE: Multiple churches were attacked in Jaranwala tehsil of Faisalabad over blasphemy allegations. Media reports stated that mob of over 100 people stormed local Christian neighbourhood in Jaranwala and set ablaze at least one church, Salvation Army Church, one of oldest in area. United Presbyterian Church, Allied Foundation Church and Shehroonwala Church situated in Isa Nagri were also reportedly ransacked.

Locals accused police of standing by as spectators as hundreds of people, armed with sticks and batons, vandalised churches besides ransacking and even burning homes in residential area.

As panic spread in area, traders shut down shops and strike was called. Situation remained tense despite policemen led by Jaranwala SP being present on site. Mob also blocked area surrounding Cinema Chowk.

Police attempted to give assurances of action against blasphemy accused but mob remained adamant that they would hang accused themselves.

Mob was reportedly incited using loudspeakers of masajid in area over reports of alleged desecration of religious scriptures by three Christians, suggested videos and messages posted on social media by people of area.

An FIR was lodged against persons accused of blasphemy under Sections 295B [pertaining to desecration of Holy Quran] and 295C [use of derogatory remarks in respect of Holy Prophet] of Pakistan Penal Code (PPC).

Police yet to take action against mob that caused panic and terror in area besides damaging private property.

Meanwhile, Assistant Commissioner Jardanwala Shaukat Masih has been immediately transferred and Rana Aurangzeb, Assistant Commissioner Tandliwala has been given additional charge.

Notification has been issued by Services and General Administration Department Punjab in this connection. Rangers and paramilitary force has been called in to normalise situation.

In statement made on social media, President Bishop of Church of Pakistan Azad called for justice. "Church building is being burnt as I type this message. Bibles have been desecrated and Christians have been tortured and harassed having been falsely accused of violating Holy Quran. We cry out for justice and action from law enforcement and those who dispense justice and safety of all citizens to intervene immediately and assure us that our lives are valuable in our own homeland that has just celebrated independence and freedom," he wrote on X.

Published in The Daily National Courier, August, 17 2023

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