ISLAMABAD: Legislators Friday condemned the desecration of a Hindu temple by a mob in Rahim Yar Khan in strong words, calling on authorities to take action and arrest all culprits involved.
A frenzied mob attacked a Hindu temple in the city’s Bhong village a couple of days ago. Video clips of the incident went viral on social media, showing men armed with sticks vandalising the place of worship.
Prime Minister Imran Khan took notice of the incident while Chief Justice Gulzar Ahmed took suo motu notice of the temple’s desecration and sought action against the culprits from authorities.
Pakistani lawmakers also denounced the attack during a session of the National Assembly, calling into question the police’s role in the incident.
“No arrests have been made yet neither did any government officials arrive at the place,” said PML-N MNA Khael Das Kohistani. “We want the interior minister and the prime minister to tell us why no has been arrested yet.”
PTI MNA Jai Prakash said the temple was desecrated due to the police’s negligence, adding that the incident had taken place three days ago and notice had been taken against it immediately.
“Prime Minister Imran Khan took immediate notice of the incident,” he added.
PTI MNA Shunila Ruth said after the Bhong temple incident took place, she spoke to the DPO Punjab and IG Punjab.
“This is a conspiracy, the PTI government stands with the Hindu minority,” she said, adding that the state does not support such extremist actions.
Another MNA, Lal Chand Malhi, said these incidents were “backed by a plan”, adding that the main objective of such episodes is to defame Pakistan.
“An FIR has been registered, I hope the culprits will be arrested as well,” he said.
PPP MNA Mahesh Kumar Malani urged legislators of other political parties, namely the PML-N, JUI-F and others to speak on the issue as well.
“Everyone in the assembly will speak about this incident,” responded Deputy Speaker Qasim Suri.
