The Overseas Pakistani Christian Alliance (OPCA) has strongly condemned the recent Jaranwala incident, where 19 churches and numerous houses were set ablaze in a suspected act of arson. The OPCA has urged the Pakistani government to take swift action in punishing those responsible for this heinous crime. In a petition addressed to President Arif Alvi, the OPCA expressed its concerns about the potential consequences of failing to hold the perpetrators accountable. They emphasized that such inaction would only breed further insecurity among religious minorities and could lead to Pakistan's increasing isolation on the international stage. Additionally, it could undermine Pakistan's reputation as a free and fair democratic state.

The Jaranwala incident, which transpired on August 16, resulted in the complete destruction of 19 churches and the burning down of 89 Christian dwellings. The violence was not confined to a single location but extended throughout the city and nearby villages. Armed individuals, allegedly motivated by emotional fervor incited by certain Imams, targeted Christian homes, looting and setting them on fire. Shockingly, even graveyards, churches, and Bibles were not spared. Such acts of violence against symbols of Christianity demonstrate a complete lack of remorse or guilt on the part of the perpetrators.

The OPCA highlighted that the violence was instigated by baseless allegations of blasphemy and Quran desecration propagated through announcements made in local mosques. What followed was an unparalleled wave of violence against the Pakistani Christian community. These acts of aggression are a clear violation of the human rights enshrined in the United Nations' Universal Charter, including the right to life and liberty, the right to be respected, the right to protection of property, and the right to safety against torture, cruelty, and inhuman treatment. The OPCA's petition emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue.

Furthermore, the OPCA expressed deep concern about the prevailing mistreatment and persecution of religious minorities in Pakistan. The Christian community in particular feels insecure due to random acts of violence throughout the country. Many individuals remain imprisoned, with their families and scared children left to endure the distressing aftermath in destroyed homes. The OPCA seeks justice for these victims and appeals for their immediate release. The OPCA also drew attention to previous incidents like Shanti Nagar and Sanga Hill, where the Pakistani government failed to prosecute those responsible for similar crimes against religious minorities.

In light of this, the OPCA called upon the United Nations, the European Union, and other world governments to take necessary steps to ensure the safety and protection of religious minorities in Pakistan. They specifically appealed to the EU to condition the renewal of Pakistan's JSP-plus status on significant improvements in human rights and religious minorities' protection. The OPCA urged clear legislation and policies to be implemented, resulting in severe punishment for those found guilty of violating their rights.

The OPCA shared details of a recent protest held on August 30 in the Netherlands, which sought to raise awareness and condemn the violent events that took place in Jaranwala on August 16. The OPCA's petition concluded by expressing deep concern about the persistent mistreatment, harassment, and persecution of religious minorities in Pakistan. This ongoing pattern of violence, particularly against Christians, reflects a disturbing tolerance by authorities. The OPCA strongly emphasized the need for urgent action to rectify this grave injustice.