Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) expresses solidarity with Christians protesting in Pakistan after a recent mob attack on a Christian family accused of blasphemy against the Quran in Sargodha, Punjab.

By Lisa Zengarini

Christians in Pakistan have taken to the streets across the Muslim-majority nation following yet another mob attack over false blasphemy accusations in the central Punjab province. Uca news agency reported that from Peshawar city in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to southern Karachi in Sindh, Christians gathered in large numbers this weekend to protest the attack on a Christian family in Sargodha district in Punjab.

The Attack in Sargodha

The Christian factory owner, Mr. Nazil Gill Masih, and his son were accused of burning pages of the Quran in their garbage in the residential area of the Gillwala Mujahid colony of Sargodha. They were attacked by over 400 men armed with batons, bricks, and stones, ransacking and burning their shops and homes. Mr. Masih was badly beaten and severely injured, while his son was also reportedly beaten. The situation posed a grave threat to the safety and well-being of the local Christian community.

Over 400 people involved and 25 arrests

The Minorities Alliance Pakistan (MAP) demanded punishment for the perpetrators of violence. ACN condemned the incident and expressed solidarity with the affected family and the Christian community in Pakistan. The police have registered cases against 450 unknown persons under an anti-terrorism law, and 25 people have been arrested in connection with the attack.

Demonstrations Across Pakistan

Christians in various cities protested against the attack, demanding justice and the dismissal of senior police officials. In Karachi, protesters demanded accountability after video footage of the mob attack showed policemen doing nothing. The situation is now under control, with additional police deployed to maintain law and order.

The Abuse of Blasphemy Law Victimizing Minorities

Blasphemy has been a capital crime in Pakistan since 1981 and is often misused to settle personal scores. The recent attack in Sargodha district is just one example of how religious minorities are targeted and victimized by false accusations under the guise of blasphemy laws.

The incident serves as a reminder of the need for justice and protection for all citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs. As Christians in Pakistan continue to stand up against persecution, it is vital for authorities to ensure the safety and security of all communities.