ISLAMABAD: Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar issued instructions to law enforcement agencies to capture the individuals responsible for the desecration of churches in Jaranwala, Faisalabad, following allegations of blasphemy.
Kakar said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, “I am gutted by the visuals coming out of Jaranwala, Faisalabad. Stern action would be taken against those who violate law and target minorities.”
caretaker pM and other Leaders Condemn Church Vandalism In Jaranwala
The interim PM also stated that all law enforcement agencies have asked to “apprehend culprits and bring them to justice”.
“Rest assured that the government of Pakistan stands with our citizenry on equal basis,” he further added.
Former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also criticized the incident by saying: “What is happening in Jaranwala is sad and disturbing.”
The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) president further added, “There is no place for violence in any religion. All religious places, Books and personages are sacred and deserve our highest level of respect. I urge the government to take action against the culprits.”
He also appealed to the “religious scholars from all schools of thought to come forward and condemn the reprehensible actions”.
“Such madness can’t be allowed. Pakistan belongs to all religious minorities,” Shehbaz sharif posted on X.
On the other hand, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari also condemned the incident.
He posted on X, “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.”
Earlier today, a mob vandalized multiple churches and set numerous houses on fire, accusing members of the Christian community of alleged blasphemy.
The incident occurred in Jaranwala town, situated in the industrial district of Faisalabad, according to Naveed Ahmad, a police spokesman.
The attack on the community ensued following allegations of blasphemy against two Christians, Ahmad stated. Furthermore, dozens of individuals were obstructing a nearby highway.
In response to the escalating violence, the local administration has deployed paramilitary troops to manage the aggressive crowd and restore order, as indicated by a government directive.
Akmal Bhatti, a Christian leader, reported that the mob set fire to a minimum of five churches and pillaged valuables from homes vacated by their residents following provocative announcements made by clerics in mosques.
Various social media posts depicted ablaze churches, residences, and personal belongings.
