Failure to act: Christian leader booked for not providing security at church

JI member decries move, says it is govt’s responsibility.

PESHAWAR: A Christian leader has been booked for failing to implement adequate security measures at a church in Tarnab Farm area on the outskirts of the city.

An official of Chamkani police told The Express Tribune an FIR has been registered against Haroon Jani Masih, leader of the Christian community in the locality.

“Several notices were sent to Masih,” he said. “However, he failed to take suitable measures to ensure security.”



However, the action was vehemently opposed by Jamaat-e-Islami Peshawar Minority Wing President Danial Samuel. Speaking to The Express Tribune, he criticised the police for registering the FIR.

“It is the government’s responsibility to provide security to places of worship,” Samuel said. “Individuals cannot be held accountable if security arrangements are below par. I am a Christian leader myself. According to a Supreme Court ruling, the government is responsible for providing security to all the places of worship across the country.”

Samuel added that the padre of the church, Samson, died a few days ago.

“There are only 10 Christian families residing in the area and Masih is their leader,” he said.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 1st, 2015.