In Pakistan’s most populous area, authorities initiated a crackdown, resulting in the arrest of over 100 individuals accused of vandalizing multiple churches and targeting homes of the Christian community in Jaranwala. This came after allegations of desecration of the Holy Quran in Jaranwala. Blasphemy is a highly sensitive matter, carrying the possibility of the death penalty, yet in Jaranwala, individuals took matters into their own hands, attacking Christian homes and churches on Wednesday.

The crackdown was prompted by local police in the eastern region responding to claims of the Quran’s desecration, which led to outrage. Videos circulating online depict members of right-wing parties causing destruction by setting fire to at least five churches and dismantling a cross atop a building that was reportedly a graveyard.

Read more : Christian colony and churches targetted in Faisalabad

With tensions escalating, Rangers were called in to support local police in restoring order in Jaranwala. The incident has garnered significant condemnation, resulting in the suspension of Jaranwala’s Assistant Commissioner, Shaukat Masih.