Mahira Khan to Sajal Aly: Celebs are raising their voice against attack on minorities in Faisalabad

In a horrific incident that has sent shockwaves across Pakistan and beyond, multiple churches in a Christian neighbourhood of Jaranwala tehsil in Faisalabad were attacked by an enraged mob on Wednesday. The attack was sparked by allegations of the desecration of the Holy Quran, leading to the burning of the Salvation Army Church and the Saint Paul Catholic Church, as well as private homes.

Videos circulating on social media depicted hundreds of people armed with batons and sticks, setting fire to the churches and attacking private homes. The incident occurred in Jaranwala, located approximately 115 km from Lahore, the provincial capital. As authorities grappled to control the situation and maintain order, prominent Pakistani celebrities took to social media to condemn the violent act, emphasizing the importance of unity, peace, and justice.

The tragedy has prompted a strong response from Pakistani celebrities, who are using their platforms to condemn the violence and show solidarity with the affected minorities. On Twitter, Mahira Khan expressed her disbelief and sorrow, saying, "Shame on us! I can't… how, why, when did we become this…"

Singer Shehzad Roy took to Twitter, urging accountability for the perpetrators and emphasizing the need to stand up against such acts. He wrote, "Earlier, we were scared of speaking up. Now, we should be scared if we don't speak up. If the state does not arrest each and every person involved in it through video footage and make an example, then we are doomed."

Actor Sajal Aly expressed her heartbreak and condemnation of the violent act against minorities. She tweeted, "Such a Shameful act! Absolutely heartbroken and disgusted. I strongly condemn this act of violence against minorities. Praying for unity and peace. There is no place for violence in any religion."

Ushna Shah also took to the micro-blogging site to lament, "As the rest of the country celebrates independence, our minorities burn."

Actor Azekah Daniel expressed her strong condemnation by tweeting, "This is not Jinnah's Pakistan! I strongly condemn this atrocity against the Christian community. Why can't we show respect to holy places - be it a church or a mosque? I stand against these atrocities and unjust acts of violence! I demand justice for all!"

She also called upon the media to shed light on the situation, stating, "Dear mainstream media and journalists of Pakistan, today we are witnessing the beginning of ethnic cleansing in [this country]. Pakistani Christians are being persecuted, churches [are being] burnt down and the whole colony [set] ablaze, will you raise your voice for us?"

The celebrity response to the tragic incident reflects the sentiment of the nation against such acts of violence. As the country grapples with this unsettling event, the voices of these influential figures serve as a reminder of the importance of unity, peace, and justice for all communities, regardless of their religious background.

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