Pakistan Riots: Christian Settlement Cordoned Off As 50 Houses Torched Over Blasphemy Allegations

Pakistan riots: The rioters have demanded the arrest of the two men accused of desecrating the Quran.

Pakistan riots: Belongings from Christian households in Jaranwala being set on fire by rioters. ( Image Source :PTI )

A Christian settlement in eastern Pakistan has been sealed off by paramilitary troops after a mob wreaked havoc, setting fire to multiple churches and numerous houses. This incident was triggered by accusations that two men residing in the settlement had desecrated the Quran. According to accounts from witnesses and law enforcement officials on Thursday, the attack unfolded in Jaranwala, in the industrial district of Faisalabad, and continued for over 10 hours.

According to a report by news agency Reuters, police personnel present at the scene of the incident did not intervene, prompting condemnation from community leaders and residents. However, the law enforcement authorities refuted this allegation, asserting that security forces prevented an even graver situation from unfolding.

The rioters were steadfast in their demand that the two accused, who are now absconding, be arrested. Residents said that the mob, numbering in thousands was led by local clerics. They brandished iron rods, sticks, knives, and daggers during the upheaval, Reuters quoted the residents as saying.

In response to the volatile situation, provincial government officials deployed paramilitary forces to assist the police in restoring order. These troops established cordons around the Christian settlement, using barbed wire to seal off all access points, confirmed Reuters.

"Many Christians have found refuge in an adjacent district," Reuters quoted community leader Akmal Bhatti. He also mentioned that although four pastors returned to the burnt churches, the attack left around 50 houses gutted. Bhatti said, "The troublemakers hauled belongings from the homes and set them fire on the streets."

Amnesty International Demands Minorities' Safety 

Human rights organisation Amnesty International has issued an appeal for Pakistani authorities to ensure the safety of minority groups. The organisation highlighted the fact that such violent mob assaults exemplify the ongoing threat of vigilante violence that any individual can face in Pakistan after being accused of blasphemy.

Law enforcement authorities confirmed the arrest of more than 100 suspected participants in the riots, and an official government statement announced an inquiry into the incident, reported news agency ANI.

Blasphemy carries the death penalty in Pakistan, and although no executions have occurred, numerous individuals accused of blasphemy have been lynched by outraged crowds. This includes the assassination of a former provincial governor and a minister for minorities based on blasphemy accusations.