Faisalabad: On the eve of Pakistan’s Independence Day, two worship places belonging to a minority community were attacked and set on fire in the Dijikot area of Faisalabad. As reported by Dawn News, the local police have registered two cases under terrorism charges against 300 individuals involved in the violent assaults. 

A total of 47 people have been nominated by name in the First Information Reports (FIRs), while approximately 300 others remain unidentified. The cases have been filed under Section 7 of the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997, and various sections of the Pakistan Penal Code, including 295 (defiling a place of worship), 425 (mischief), 446 (housebreaking), 380 (theft), 148 (rioting with deadly weapons), and 149 (unlawful assembly). 

According to the FIRs, the attacks were reportedly led by Hafiz Rafaqat, a political candidate affiliated with Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP). Armed with rods and bricks, the mob gathered outside one of the larger minority worship places before launching a coordinated assault. The building was pelted with stones and later set on fire. Community members who attempted to intervene were violently beaten, with several sustaining serious injuries. 

Human rights organizations and civil society leaders have strongly condemned the violence. LEAD Ministries Pakistan denounced the attacks and criticized both the actions of Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan and its political leadership for fostering a climate of religious intolerance and extremism. 

“This incident is a blatant violation of the fundamental rights guaranteed to all citizens, regardless of their faith. The use of violence against minority communities is unacceptable and must be met with swift justice,” said Pastor Imran Amanat, leader of LEAD Ministries Pakistan. 

The incident has once again highlighted the vulnerability of religious minorities in Pakistan, where legal and societal discrimination often leaves such communities exposed to targeted violence. Despite repeated national and international appeals for better protections, minority groups continue to face increasing threats to their safety and freedom of worship. 

As investigations continue, rights advocates are urging authorities to take decisive action against those involved and to ensure long-term protections for minority communities. The attacks in Faisalabad serve as a stark reminder of the growing need to uphold the rule of law and foster an inclusive, pluralistic society.