There is another alleged case of Blasphemy being reported in Sargodha – a district of Punjab – in which a mob attacked multiple houses of Christians, broke windows, and set the household belongings on fire. It was reported that an alleged desecration of the Holy Quran sparked violent protests and mob attacks on Friday.
Local police reported to have rescued a Christian family and relocated them to a safe place. Neither further details were yet known nor anything from the government side was heard over this incident. According to the available details, the violence erupted in the Mujahid Colony area of district Sargodha. The district police officer (DPO) and other officials rushed to the area and police tried to disperse the mob.
The was reported stating that the desecration was committed by unknown people who burnt pages of religious books sparking violent protests. Members of the Peace Committee also reached the spot and urged people to stay calm. Further details of these reported incidents are being awaited.
It is important to note that earlier in 2023 various such incidents were reported. In February a Muslim – Muhammad Waris – was attacked in district Nankana Sahib by an angry mob after having been arrested by police on the charge of blasphemy.
In April a Chinese transport supervisor was accused of disrespecting Islam by his Pakistani transport drivers after allegedly admonishing them for delaying reporting to work after their prayer time during the month of Ramadan. In May, a local Muslim religious leader was killed by an angry mob after being accused of blasphemy.
In August, an English teacher was killed by unidentified gunmen in Turbat following accusations of blasphemy. in the same month last year, at least four churches and several homes in Jaranwala district were set to fire.
