Lahore (Reuters) – Pakistani police have arrested two Christians accused of blasphemy, a police spokesperson said on Friday, days after a Muslim mob burnt churches and houses in a Christian settlement in the east of the country, accusing two of its members of desecrating the Koran.
The arrests come following a violent incident in which a Muslim mob attacked and set fire to churches and houses belonging to a Christian community in a settlement in eastern Pakistan. The mob accused two Christian individuals of desecrating the Koran, leading to this act of violence.
A police spokesperson confirmed the arrests of two Christians who have been accused of blasphemy. Blasphemy is considered a serious crime in Pakistan, and those found guilty can face severe punishment, including the death penalty.
The incident has brought attention once again to the ongoing issue of religious tensions and persecution in Pakistan. The country has a history of violence and discrimination against religious minority groups, particularly Christians and Hindus.
Religious freedom is protected by the Pakistani constitution, but in reality, religious minorities often face discrimination and are targeted by extremist groups. In recent years, there have been numerous incidents of mob violence and attacks on religious minority communities.
The government has been criticized for not doing enough to protect religious minority groups and for failing to prosecute those responsible for these attacks. Human rights organizations have called on the authorities to take immediate action to ensure the safety and rights of religious minorities.
International communities and organizations have also expressed concern over the situation, urging the Pakistani government to address the issue and protect the rights of all its citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs.
The arrests of the two Christians accused of blasphemy are likely to further fuel tensions between religious communities in the country. The incident and its aftermath highlight the need for greater dialogue, understanding, and respect among different religious groups in Pakistan.
The police spokesperson did not provide any further details regarding the individuals who have been arrested or the specific charges they are facing. The investigation is ongoing, and more information is expected to emerge in the coming days.
Meanwhile, the affected Christian community is left to rebuild their homes and churches, while also grappling with the fear and trauma caused by the recent violence.
Reporting by Mubasher Bukhari; Editing by Kim Coghill
Credit: The Star : News Feed
