Christians in Sargodha, Pakistan targeted for alleged blasphemy | Global News

At least 10 members of a minority Christian community in eastern Pakistan were rescued on Saturday after a Muslim crowd attacked their settlement on a blasphemy accusation. The incident, which took place in Sargodha district, involved the crowd hurling stones and bricks at the police, setting fire to a house and a small shoe factory.

The crowd had gathered after neighbors alleged that a member of the Christian community had desecrated the Muslim holy book, the Koran. Several Christians were badly beaten, and one house was burned down in the violent attack. A large contingent of police managed to cordon off the settlement and rescue the community members, with one individual taken to the hospital in stable condition.

Police officials reported that 25 of the protesters had been arrested, and 11 police officers were injured during the operation. The situation eventually calmed down by late evening, with leaders from both sides calling for peace. However, a Christian rights group expressed concern over the safety of the Christian community, stating that they were at grave risk from the charged mobs.

Blasphemy is a sensitive issue in Pakistan, where just an accusation can lead to violent mob attacks. Human rights groups have criticized Pakistan’s blasphemy laws, stating that they are often misused to settle personal scores. The incident in Sargodha is not an isolated case, as similar attacks have occurred in the past, highlighting the ongoing tensions between different religious communities in the country.