On August 16, a large mob of Muslims attacked the Christian community residing in Jaranwala. The violence erupted after two Christians were accused of committing blasphemy, alleging that the holy Quran had been desecrated.
The mob, armed with batons and sticks, congregated after clerics in mosques incited violence. According to Christian leader Akmal Bhatti, at least five churches were set ablaze including the Salvation Army Church and the Saint Paul Catholic Church. Copies of Bible were also descrated. The crowd also attacked and looted private homes which residents had escaped from to protect their lives.
So far, the police have arrested two men who have been accused of inciting violence on August 16. Moreover, the Punjab interim government has ordered a high-level investigation into the incident. Resultantly, over 100 people have been arrested.
But while the Christian community awaits justice, they are left out in the open without food and shelter. Following the incident, they have spent nights sleeping in fields and roadsides.
Here is how you can help:
An instagram page, Reformistan, has shared sources that are collecting funds in order to provide the people of Jaranwala with emergency aid.
You can directly donate to the Christian community members working to rehabilitate those in need:
Raja Sharoon Lewis — Jazz
Cash Account: 03084269400
Zonobia Bhatti — Askari Bank
Account Number: 00630210143074
Raja Sharoon Lewis — Muslim Commercial Bank Account
Number: 1228017681000588
Actavia Farhat (Owner of Actavia Orphan Foundation) — Meezan Bank
Account Number: 02930104441837
For donations from outside of Paksitan:
Zonobia Bhatti — Askari Bank
Account Number: 0630210143074
IBAN: PK34ASCM0000630210143074
Swift Code: ASCMPkKA
Raja Sharoon Lewis — Western Union
Account Number: 35404-2962653-7
Be The Change (Pakistan) is raising money for the Jaranwala Christian community to help them rebuild their homes and churches:
Bano
Number: +923004004952
Aalia
Number: +923174319994
You can also donate to The Cecil & Iris Chaudhry Foundation — MCB
Account Number: 0000000013138796
