Pakistani Christians close schools to protest Muslim mob attack
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 11 March 2013 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Pakistani Christians close schools to protest Muslim mob attack, 11 March 2013, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/519a6af02c.html [accessed 4 June 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
March 11, 2013
Anzila Semeul cries while sitting with her daughter in front of their home, after it was burnt by a mob on March 9, in Lahore on March 11.
Dozens of Christian schools in Pakistan have been closed to protest an attack by a Muslim mob last week.
Around 3,000 rioters attacked a Christian neighborhood in the eastern city of Lahore, burning almost 200 homes and shops.
Paul Bhatti, an adviser to the prime minister, was quoted by the dpa news agency as saying the schools will remain closed until March 12.
The riots were sparked after a Christian man was accused of making blasphemous remarks about Islam's Prophet Muhammad, a crime punishable by death in Pakistan.
Police have so far arrested some 150 people in connection with the attacks.
On March 10, Christians held rallies in cities across Pakistan demanding greater government protection and better compensation.
Police said around 100 demonstrators were arrested after some began damaging public property.
Based on reporting by dpa and AFP
Link to original story on RFE/RL website
