Faisalabad: The tragedy is still looking for justice two years later, Bishop Andreas Elias's press conference

Faisalabad(94 News City Reporter) On the second anniversary of the Jardanwala tragedy, Archbishop Dr. Andreas Rahmat, speaking at a press conference at the Press Club, said that this is a day that reminds us of the painful moments two years ago when innocent families' homes, honor and holy places were attacked. This incident was not only a wound for the affected families but also for the whole nation. 100 Houses were set on fire. On that day, not only properties were burnt, but also the guarantee of religious freedom and civil protection of the Constitution of Pakistan was violated. As a result of this tragic tragedy, 22 cases were registered in 3 different police stations of Jaranwala, out of which 5 cases were filed by police and 17 cases were filed by local people and pastors. In these 22 cases, 166 accused were named and charges of arson, attempted murder, looting, desecration of places of worship, harming them and terrorism were registered against about 5200 unknown attackers. Among these more than 5200 attackers, the local police arrested only 300 accused. Due to the poor and incomplete investigation by the local police, all these accused were released on bail. The plaintiffs were identified through various sources, the police were unable to file a case and arrest them. Due to this poor investigation and unprofessional performance of the local police, the accused in two cases have been acquitted so far. Even after two years, these wounds are fresh in our hearts, but at the same time, this time reminds us how we supported each other in difficulties and trials, supported each other, and kept the flag of peace and love high. I deeply thank all those who offered prayers, moral support and practical help to the victims and who worked day and night. I gave special thanks to the Muslim brothers who showed practical brotherhood and stood by us in the hour of sorrow. I also appreciate the cooperation of various institutions which played a role in the rehabilitation of the victims. However, today we are gathered here not only to express our gratitude but also to reiterate a demand for justice. We appeal to the police and the courts to ensure transparent and speedy action in this case so that the victim's families get justice and the rule of law prevails in the country. Because further delay in justice will not only hurt the victims but also tarnish Pakistan's image at the global level. We also want such tragedies to never happen again. This requires that we promote interfaith harmony, include messages of tolerance and respect in education curricula, and strengthen laws and measures that prevent hate speech. I appeal to everyone to maintain a relationship of love and peace with each other while respecting our religious and cultural identity. The message of the Jardanwala tragedy is that hatred can be defeated only through love, dialogue and justice. May God make us messengers of peace, and protect our country from all kinds of prejudice, hatred and violence. were present