Christian couple killed for 'desecrating Koran' in Pakistan
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 4 November 2014 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Christian couple killed for 'desecrating Koran' in Pakistan, 4 November 2014, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/548ea8214.html [accessed 5 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. |
November 04, 2014
Pakistani police say a Muslim mob has beaten a Christian couple to death and burnt their bodies for allegedly desecrating a Koran.
The incident took place on November 4 in the town of Kot Radha Kishan, 60 kilometers southwest of Lahore, and is the latest example of mob violence against minorities accused of blasphemy.
The victims, who were working in a brick kiln, were only identified by their first names, Shama and Shehzad, and were a married couple.
Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif has constituted a three-member committee to fast-track the investigation of the killings and ordered police to beef up security at Christian neighborhoods in the province.
Blasphemy is a hugely sensitive issue in the majority Muslim country, with even unproven allegations often prompting mob violence.
Based on reporting by AP and BBC
Link to original story on RFE/RL website
