HRCP Raises Alarm Over Threats to Christians in Sargodha

News Desk

Islamabad: The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) is seriously concerned by the unfolding situation in Sargodha, where the Christian community in Gillwala village is reportedly at grave risk of violence from charged mobs.

There are unconfirmed reports of a man having been allegedly lynched. The Punjab police and district administration must immediately restore calm and bring the perpetrators to justice, ensuring that the Christian community faces no further harm, said a press release posted by HRCP on Saturday.

In Punjab’s Sargodha an alleged desecration of the Holy Quran sparked violent protests and mob attacks on Friday.

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) is deeply concerned about the situation unfolding in Sargodha, where the Christian community in Gillwala village faces grave danger from violent mobs.

Unconfirmed reports suggest that a man may have been lynched.

The Punjab police and district administration must act swiftly to restore calm and ensure the safety of the Christian community, holding the perpetrators accountable.

The mob has attacked multiple houses, breaking windows and setting household belongings on fire. Local police officials, speaking anonymously, reported rescuing a Christian family and relocating them to safety. However, there has been no immediate response from the government or senior police officials.

Video clips obtained by Aaj News show police standing between the angry mob and private properties. The violence occurred in the Mujahid Colony area of Sargodha, where an alleged desecration of the Holy Quran sparked the protests and attacks on Friday.

Sargodha district police officer (DPO) and other officials rushed to the area as police personnel attempted to disperse the mob.

Police officials stated that the desecration was committed by unknown individuals, with burnt pages of religious books found, igniting the violent protest. Members of a peace committee also arrived at the scene, urging people to remain calm.

This incident is reminiscent of August 2023, when violent mobs burned Christian homes in Punjab’s Jaranwala following blasphemy allegations.