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The Plight of Non-Muslims in Pakistan amidst Rising Church Attacks

3 minutes read

The Plight of Non-Muslims in Pakistan amidst Rising Church Attacks

3 minutes read

In a recent podcast, Dr. Qamar Cheema addressed the alarming issue of mob vandalism targeting multiple churches in Faisalabad. The wave of violence and destruction that has swept through these places of worship raises serious concerns about the state of religious harmony and tolerance in Pakistan.

Key Points 

  • The destruction of five churches and the looting of sacred items, along with the burning of homes, has left a trail of devastation.
  • The newly elected Prime Minister of Pakistan, Anwar Ul Haq Kakar, declared that all citizens are equal and condemned such actions. However, the question remains whether this condemnation will translate into meaningful action.
  • The role of religious clerics is also questionable in perpetuating intolerance. It urged introspection among these leaders, who should be champions of peaceful coexistence.
  • The need for de-radicalization efforts and a collective effort to uphold the rule of law are crucial steps in restoring peace and unity.

Dr. Cheema expressed deep dismay, stating that this is a shameful moment for Pakistan. The destruction of five churches and the looting of sacred items, along with the burning of homes, has left a trail of devastation. Such acts not only tarnish the principles of Islam, a religion known for advocating peace but also raise questions about the role of religious leaders in fostering unrest.

Comparing these events to a similar to the Sri Lankan citizen who was working at a factory, Dr. Cheema questioned whether those responsible are facing appropriate consequences, or if society has grown desensitized to such issues. The focus shifted to the treatment of religious minorities in Pakistan, specifically Hindus, Christians, and Sikhs, and the troubling levels of intolerance they face.

The newly elected Prime Minister of Pakistan, Anwar Ul Haq Kakar, declared that all citizens are equal and condemned such actions. However, the question remains whether this condemnation will translate into meaningful action. The article emphasized the importance of turning words into deeds.

According to the statement of Muhammad Ali Jinnah that “You are free; you are free to go to your temples. You are free to go to your mosques or to any other places of worship in the State of Pakistan. You may belong to any religion, caste or creed—that has nothing to do with the business of the state” which clearly indicates that people can live in harmony without any discrimination.

Dr Qamar lamented the alarming trend of mob justice and how it undermines the rule of law. Rather than taking evidence to the appropriate authorities, individuals have been taking the law into their own hands. The resultant fear has forced families to flee their homes in search of safety.

He also questioned the role of religious clerics in perpetuating intolerance. It urged introspection among these leaders, who should be champions of peaceful coexistence. He criticized the misuse of blasphemy laws, which have been exploited to settle personal scores and incite violence. Despite these laws, the lack of proper legal proceedings and reliance on mob justice have perpetuated a climate of fear and brutality.

Dr Cheema underscored the urgent need for change, both in societal attitudes and government intervention. He lamented Pakistan’s tarnished image on the global stage and contrasted this with the nation’s potential for progress. The need for de-radicalization efforts and a collective effort to uphold the rule of law are needed as crucial steps in restoring peace and unity.

Ultimately Dr Cheema advocated for Pakistan to live up to its founding principles and demonstrate that diversity can thrive within its borders.

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