LAHORE: The Christian community has taken its case to the Lahore High Court (LHC) to address the reported pressure exerted by police officials, urging them to reach a compromise in the Jaranwala rampage incident. The community is requesting the formation of a judicial inquiry committee to ensure a fair investigation into the matter.
Through a petition filed by advocate Shahbaz Fazal Saroya, Peter Charles, the chairman of Grace Bible Fellowship Church Pakistan, outlined the continuous threats faced by the community from some locals. The petitioner expressed disappointment in the failure of the state, local administration, and law enforcement authorities to ensure the community’s safety.
The petition highlights the inability of these institutions to prevent a mob from torching nearly two dozen churches and attacking residents’ homes based on blasphemy charges. Charles also calls for proper punishment for all the individuals identified in CCTV footage and other relevant evidence.
The petition additionally calls on the court to direct state authorities to promptly provide financial and administrative support to the victims of the Jaranwala incident. It calls for assisting them in their efforts to resume normal lives following the violent mob action.
According to the petition, the Jaranwala incident involved an “unreal, fake, and frivolous case” of alleged defiling of the Holy Quran on August 16 in the Jaranwala district of Faisalabad. An announcement made by a “fanatic” at a local mosque conveyed the news of this incident.
The petition outlines the ensuing severe reaction, where an enraged mob set fire to more than 25 churches and over 50 homes using chemicals and petrol bombs. The mob also destroyed and looted 200 homes belonging to the Christian community. The petition states that the mob disrespected and defiled religious symbols, crosses, and holy books of the Christian faith.
Arrests Made in Response to Sacrilegious Act
In response to the incident, the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) arrested “both main suspects” allegedly involved in the sacrilegious act and placed them in custody. Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi confirmed the arrests on social media, acknowledging the efforts of the police and expressing gratitude for the support of the Prime Minister and others in the swift arrest process. The arrested individuals were identified as Raja Saleem Masih and Rocky Masih.
