Why is another Christian spiritual leader killed in Pakistan?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Pastor Kamran was murdered outside his home in Punjab.
- He survived an assassination attempt just two months ago.
- The attack has shocked the Christian community in Pakistan.
- The Voice of Pakistan Minority is calling for justice.
- This incident highlights the vulnerability of religious minorities.
Islamabad, Dec 9 (NationPress) A prominent minority rights organization raised concerns on Tuesday regarding the assassination of a Christian spiritual leader in Pakistan, who was fatally shot outside his home in Punjab province, just two months after narrowly escaping a similar assassination attempt in Islamabad.
The Voice of Pakistan Minority (VOPM) reported that the incident occurred on the morning of December 5, when Pastor Kamran was leaving his residence to take his daughter Numeer to college. As they neared their vehicle, the rights group stated, an assailant on a motorcycle attacked them, firing at close range and striking Kamran multiple times. He was immediately transported to the Civil Hospital in Gujranwala, Punjab, where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries.
The organization emphasized that Kamran’s passing has sent ripples of shock through the Christian community across Pakistan, leaving his wife, Salmina, and their three young children to cope with an unspeakable tragedy.
According to the VOPM, the sorrow is compounded by the fact that Kamran had previously faced violence due to his commitment to helping others. Just two months earlier, he survived an attack by extremists in Islamabad, leaving him injured.
“This heinous murder has reignited fears among Christians in Pakistan, who already live under the persistent threat of violence. Pastor Kamran’s death is indicative of a disturbing trend of violence against individuals who stand firm in their faith within a climate of increasing hostility. The anguish experienced by his family resonates with many who knew him and in the communities he served,” stated the VOPM.
The rights organization noted that while police have initiated an investigation, the hesitation of local officials to take significant action raises doubts about the pursuit of justice.
“Pastor Kamran’s assassination serves as a stark reminder of the profound vulnerability faced by religious minorities in Pakistan and the often unchallenged nature of these brutal acts,” it further added.