PM has taken notice of Hindu temple's vandalism in Rahim Yar Khan: Fawad

Ministers assure 'indiscriminate' action against culprits; NA passes resolution condemning incident


News Desk August 06, 2021
Federal Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry addressing a presser in Islamabad on June 22, 2021. SCREENGRAB

ISLAMABAD:

Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said on Friday that Prime Minister Imran Khan has taken notice of the vandalism incident targeting a Hindu temple in Rahim Yar Khan

"I'm pleased that the prime minister took notice of the incident and then the Chief Justice of Pakistan did as well," Fawad said while speaking to the media.

"Those who hurt the religious sentiments of our Hindu brothers should be given befitting punishment."

The information minister also urged the masses to stand up against those who target Pakistanis based on their caste, colour or beliefs. Fawad further said that Pakistan's future is that of a progressive country, a country where the minorities remain safe.

Meanwhile, Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid said that the federal government was coordinating with the provincial government to nab the culprits of the incident.

He assured indiscriminate action against those spreading religious hatred and inciting others against minorities. Terming the incident unfortunate and condemnable, Rashid said, "We will ensure the protection of all religious minorities".

The interior minister also observed that such incidents tarnish the country's image. "It is completely against Islamic teachings to desecrate the place of worship of any religion," the minister remarked.

NA condemns vandalism

The National Assembly has unanimously adopted a resolution against the incident and the House assured minorities of protection.

Also read SC orders police to arrest accused for vandalising RYK Hindu temple

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) lawmaker Shireen Mazari informed the session that a First Information Report (FIR) of the incident has been registered, and the premier has taken notice of the incident.

Mazari assured other lawmakers that action against those responsible has been initiated and added that there was no need to "resort to politics on the matter".

Earlier, lawmakers from the Hindu community raised the issue in the session and said the temple was also set on fire, adding that it was a grave injustice with the community.

They demanded an inquiry into the incident and noted that no arrest has been made so far.

Earlier today, the Supreme Court directed Punjab Police chief Inam Ghani and the chief secretary on Friday to take action against the culprits involved in the attack on a Hindu temple in Rahim Yar Khan.

On Thursday, a mob vandalised the Shree Ganesh temple in Bhong village of Rahim Yar Khan a day earlier.

A viral video clip showed people armed with clubs and rods storming the temple and smashing its doors, windows, lights, fans and religious idols.

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