Karachi– Pakistan’s Christian minority — about 1.6 per cent of the population — continues to face systemic persecution and marginalisation, with justice still elusive two years after the Jaranwala mob attacks in Punjab province, according to a report cited on Friday.
On August 16, 2023, a mob incited by blasphemy allegations burned down 26 churches and more than 80 homes in one of the worst anti-Christian assaults in the country’s history. Yet not a single conviction has been secured, writes Dimitra Staikou in Defence Net.
Christians seeking justice for the attacks continue to face intimidation, while Pakistan’s controversial blasphemy laws — widely criticized for being weaponised through false accusations — remain a tool of oppression, the report said. Pakistan ranks eighth on Open Doors’ 2025 World Watch List of the most difficult countries in which to live as a Christian.
Though executions for blasphemy are rare, mere accusations often spark deadly mob violence. On June 4 this year, an anti-terrorism court in Faisalabad acquitted 10 individuals accused of torching a church and looting a Christian home. The plaintiff’s lawyer blamed police negligence, with observers warning of similar outcomes in pending cases.
Amnesty International reported that of the 5,213 suspects arrested in the Jaranwala riots, only 380 were detained, with most later released. Within a year, 228 received bail and 77 were acquitted. “Despite promises of accountability, the authorities’ failure has fostered a climate of impunity,” said Babu Ram Poudel, Amnesty’s Deputy Regional Director for South Asia.
Marking the second anniversary this month, Christians gathered in Jaranwala to protest the lack of justice. The Victims’ Committee condemned government inaction. “We are extremely disappointed,” said coordinator Lala Robin Daniel. “We call on all Christians to hold peaceful sit-ins and use social media to demand justice.”
Samson Salamat, president of Rawadari Tehreek, criticized both government officials and some within the Christian community. “Even the Punjab minister who calls minorities ‘the jewel in the crown’ has not visited Jaranwala,” he said.
Outside the Lahore Press Club, activists Ghazala Shafique and Luke Victor demanded strict punishment for those responsible. “Jaranwala is a reminder of the deep-rooted intolerance Christians face,” they said.
Michelle Chaudhry, president of the Cecil and Iris Chaudhry Foundation, highlighted the misuse of blasphemy laws. “No Christian would dare commit blasphemy. But the failure of institutions to protect citizens has been laid bare. We urge the government to deliver justice and fulfill its promises of rehabilitation and support,” she said.
Rights groups argue that meaningful reform will require addressing blasphemy laws, strengthening judicial accountability, and launching education campaigns against religious prejudice. They say empowering Christian communities — especially women and children — with social and economic support, coupled with international advocacy, is vital to securing their future and dignity in Pakistan. (Source: IANS)
