Pakistan: Human Rights Focus Pakistan (HRFP) released a report stating that a total of 19 churches were fully gutted along with 89 Christian houses burnt down in the recent violence that erupted in Jaranwala in Faisalabad.
According to the HRFP report, the incident on August 16 in Jaranwala involved an attack on churches and Christians.
Read more: Reciprocal Tax will imposed on India: Donald Trump
The report indicated that a total of 19 churches were completely burned, and additionally, two churches along with several prayer rooms and community halls were impacted.
The report also highlighted that more than 400 houses were affected in the event. Among these, 89 houses owned by Christians, including those of pastors and priests, were completely destroyed, while 15 houses suffered partial damage.
“During the initial nights of the attack, more than 10,000 Christians sought refuge in sugar cane fields and other agricultural areas,” report said.
The HRFP’s report was compiled based on firsthand information and evidence gathered during their fact-finding mission to the incident sites.
The team conducted interviews with victims, families, local residents, church leaders, neighbors, journalists, police officials, local authorities, political activists, and various stakeholders.
During their interactions, the HRFP team personally met with over 150 victims, families, and church leaders who shared accounts of victimization, religious persecution, losses, and immediate needs.
Read more: California: Tropical Storm Hilary unleashes heavy rains, flooding
The report emphasizes the urgency of providing assistance both in the short and long term.
The fact-finding team observed that household belongings were stolen, while the remaining items were set ablaze. Due to timely evacuation, people managed to escape. The human rights team noted that many of those who fled are now facing traumatic conditions, with injuries reported among several individuals and instances of abuse reported by some women.
