Following a heartbreaking episode in Sargodha recently, in which a Christian man was attacked and his home and workplace were set on fire due to accusations of blasphemy, notable individuals in Pakistan, such as Erica Robin, the 2023 Miss Universe Pakistan, and Mashal Khan, the actor, expressed their apprehensions and demanded immediate changes to safeguard the rights of minorities.
Robin made a strong statement against the mistreatment of minorities and the need for change on her Instagram account. The unfortunate reality is that minorities in Pakistan do not receive the same treatment as the majority. Pakistan would not be in existence now if it weren’t for the minority votes cast in 1947. Even Quaid-e-Azam admitted that Pakistan came into being as a result of these minorities. However, terrible things have been going on in Pakistan for decades.”
In response to the horrifying attack in Sargodha, Robin has made a statement highlighting the fact that this is not a unique incident. Minorities continue to face discrimination, as seen by the sad event that occurred recently in Sargodha and claimed the life of an innocent individual. Events such as the Gojra riots, the persecution of Ahmadis, and attacks on the Hindu and Christian communities have been happening for years, therefore this is not an isolated episode, the speaker pointed out.
She also drew attention to the abuse of Pakistan’s blasphemy laws, which are frequently used to unfairly single out minority groups. “Pakistan’s blasphemy law has frequently been abused to unfairly target minorities. The majority of Pakistanis should now speak up and demand that the blasphemy law be repealed. Minorities like us are essential to this country and should be treated with the same dignity and protection.” As she considered the wider ramifications of these incidents, Robin voiced her passionate desire for advancement and her profound love for her nation. “We cherish and play a significant role in our nation. It’s time for an overhaul.”
Mashal also used Instagram to denounce the assaults and highlight the historical achievements made by Pakistan’s minority communities. “I have no idea how long it will take me to submit the same thing repeatedly. Pakistan was established by and for minorities. In India before partition, Muslims were a minority group and faced religiously motivated crimes. It is unacceptable to continue in the same manner now that we are a sovereign nation,” Mashal said. “Letting these vile, despicable menaces to society get away with this only gives them more power,” the actor from Suno Chanda continued. Defend the minority groups.”
Photo: Mashal Khan on Instagram
After being saved by the cops and taken to the hospital, Nazir Gill is in serious condition and is currently fighting for his life. In the course of the assault, the furious crowd broke into Gill’s house and workshop, destroying a great deal of property and attempting to lynch him. Many Christians in the area abandoned their houses out of terror, and some took sanctuary at neighboring churches.
I am a dedicated student currently in my seventh semester, pursuing a degree in International Relations. Alongside my academic pursuits, I am actively engaged in the professional field as a content writer at the Rangeinn website.