Christians in Pakistan protest after deadly church attacks
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 16 March 2015 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Christians in Pakistan protest after deadly church attacks, 16 March 2015, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/552f9d7432.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. |
March 16, 2015
Protesters from Pakistan's Christian community clash with riot police on March 16, a day after suicide attacks on two churches in Lahore.
Thousands of members of Pakistan's Christian minority have protested in the eastern city of Lahore following deadly attacks on two churches.
The protesters reportedly smashed property and clashed with police, who used tear gas and batons to disperse them on March 16.
Suicide bombers attacked two churches in a majority-Christian suburb of Lahore on March 15 as worshippers were gathered inside, killing at least 16 people.
The attacks were claimed by a faction of the Pakistani Taliban.
Following the blasts, enraged residents lynched two men they suspected of involvement.
Protests were also reported in Faisalabad and Gujranwala.
Christians make up less than 2 percent of the predominantly Muslim population of Pakistan.
They have accused the government of not doing enough to protect them against sectarian attacks.
Based on reporting by Reuters, AP, and the BBC
Link to original story on RFE/RL website
