Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Lahore (Agenzia Fides) – Churches in Pakistan are concern about fresh episodes of anti-Christian violence by Islamic fundamentalists in Punjab. The most serious recent episode happened on 30 June when a mob of some 600 angry Muslims attacked at least 100 Christian homes in the village of Bahmani, Kasur district in the province of Punjab. According to the Pakistan Bishops' Justice and Peace Commission, Christian homes were completely sacked or destroyed and more than 110 Christian families (700 people) had to abandon their homes and live in makeshift dwellings in outlying areas. Reportedly the religious leaders of the local mosque incited local Muslims to violence against the Christians, urging them to "teach a lesson to the 'blasphemous' Christians".
The Justice and Peace Commission says the incidents were connected with an episode which happened a few days ago. An argument, between a Christian boy, Arif Mashi and a Muslim Muhammad Riaz, degenerated into false accusations of blasphemy and violent retaliation against Christians in the area.
A Justice and Peace Commission delegation, led by Fr Emmanuel Yousaf Mani, visited the area to assess damages. The priest appealed to the government to provide compensation for the Christian families affected and to condemn the perpetrators of the violence. The Commission called once again on the government to safeguard and protect the rights of religious minorities who cannot be terrorised, threatened and assaulted while the state looks on. The Commission called public attention to the controversial anti-blasphemy law often abused for personal gain and to strike non Muslim religious minority groups.
The Punjab civil authorities have recognised the gravity of the incidents and announced compensation for the victims. Federal minister for Minority Group Affairs Shahbaz Bhatti, visited the area and promised government help to rebuild the damaged homes. A joint Christian Muslim Committee of local religious leaders, which has underlined that Islam prohibits cruelty or violence against other religious communities, is working to promote reconciliation among the two groups. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 7/7/2009 righe 28 parole 281)
