Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Islamabad (Agenzia Fides) - Christian minorities in northern Pakistan are subject to threats and intimidation by groups of Islamic fundamentalists. Whole families are intimidated by destruction of homes and small businesses and forced either to convert to Islam or to move away from the area. This was reported to Fides by the Pakistan Catholic Bishops' Commission for Justice and Peace in a statement signed by Bishop Lawrence Saldanha, president of the Bishops' Conference and the executive secretary of the Commission Peter Jacob.
The statement denounces violence and threats and calls on the government to protect the life and safety of religious minorities as sanctioned in Pakistan's Constitution. The mentioned episodes were reported in Charsadda and Mardan villages in the North West Frontier Province.
The Commission says adequate measures must be taken to prevent violent groups from threatening and violating human rights; to safeguard life and freedom and to protect minority religious communities, their homes, places of worship and economic activities; careful monitoring of Islamic leaders who incite violence. The Bishops have appealed to local political authorities and the government of Pakistan calling for urgent measures to prevent the situation from degenerating into massacre.
Despite the threats the Christians in Charsadda have courageously decided to stay. The local police has more patrols on the streets and guards for churches but there is still fear of attacks.
Several human rights groups have mobilised to denounce the violence and increase awareness. The All Pakistan Minorities Alliance issued a statement at the national level and appeals at the international level have been launched by the UK based Christian Solidarity Worldwide. The local Church hopes this activity will discourage the extremists from their violent intentions. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 24/5/2007 righe 27 parole 278)
