Over 20 rioters arrested in Rahim Yar Khan temple attack case

Published August 7, 2021
This image shows a mob vandalising a Hindu temple in Bhong town. — DawnNewsTV
This image shows a mob vandalising a Hindu temple in Bhong town. — DawnNewsTV

RAHIM YAR KHAN: Police have arrested more than 20 accused involved in storming a Hindu temple in Bhong town, 60km from here.

District Police Officer Asad Sarfraz told Dawn on Friday more rioters would be arrested soon and none would be spared.

Meanwhile, Additional Inspector General of Police, South Punjab, retired Capt Zafar Iqbal Awan visited the area along with Bahawalpur RPO Zubair Dareshk and RYK DPO.

Speaking on the occasion, Awan said the police had initiated legal action against the accused involved in unrest and disorder in Bhong. He said the restoration work of the temple had been started and force had been deployed. He promised full security to the Hindu community.

The additional IGP said the police officers who showed negligence would be held accountable.

According to sources, one of the suspects who also runs a gold business in Bhong and has business rivalry with some Hindu gold traders, shared a post on Facebook and instigated the Muslims to boycott Hindus.

They said the Bhong police had arrested the suspect but released him on the pressure of a local influential parliamentarian.

After his release, the accused deleted the controversial post from Facebook.

Published in Dawn, August 7th, 2021

Opinion

Editorial

Kurram atrocity
Updated 22 Nov, 2024

Kurram atrocity

It would be a monumental mistake for the state to continue ignoring the violence in Kurram.
Persistent grip
22 Nov, 2024

Persistent grip

An audit of polio funds at federal and provincial levels is sorely needed, with obstacles hindering eradication efforts targeted.
Green transport
22 Nov, 2024

Green transport

THE government has taken a commendable step by announcing a New Energy Vehicle policy aiming to ensure that by 2030,...
Military option
Updated 21 Nov, 2024

Military option

While restoring peace is essential, addressing Balochistan’s socioeconomic deprivation is equally important.
HIV/AIDS disaster
21 Nov, 2024

HIV/AIDS disaster

A TORTUROUS sense of déjà vu is attached to the latest health fiasco at Multan’s Nishtar Hospital. The largest...
Dubious pardon
21 Nov, 2024

Dubious pardon

IT is disturbing how a crime as grave as custodial death has culminated in an out-of-court ‘settlement’. The...