News Desk
Attock, June 14 – A delegation of Christian community leaders met with Sardar Ghias Gul Khan, District Police Officer (DPO) of Attock, to discuss growing concerns following a recent incident in Sargodha. The meeting, held at the DPO office, was attended by various religious, political, and social figures from the Christian community of Attock.
The gathering was prompted by rising fear and panic among Christians, exacerbated by the Sargodha incident and subsequent events. Ms. Shareen Aslam, a human rights activist and member of the district peace committee, highlighted these concerns during an Interfaith Peace Committee meeting on June 13 at the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Attock. She expressed her own fears, stating, “I am very worried and fear that someone might tear up and throw sacred papers outside my door. Similarly, all Christians are worried too.”
In response to these concerns, the Christian delegation sought assurances from the DPO of Attock. The attendees of the meeting included Shareen Aslam, Babu Asif Masih from the Catholic Church, Christian leader Mr. Younas, teacher Mr. Victor, Pastor Johnson of the UP Church, youth leader Zeeshan Masih, councillor Ijaz Khokhar, businessman Shujaat William, youth representative Shahgaan Gulfaraz, and businessman Khurram Khokhar.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with the DPO assuring the delegation that measures would be taken to prevent any incidents similar to those in Sargodha. He sought suggestions from the community on effective measures, leading to the formation of a group that would report any unfavorable conditions directly to the police.
The delegation also requested protection for Christian shopkeepers and workers, citing past incidents where Christians were prevented from working. The DPO assured immediate action would be taken in response to any such incidents, emphasizing the importance of swift communication.
The meeting concluded with a prayer and a promise of continued dialogue to ensure the safety and well-being of the Christian community in Attock.