A powerful demonstration of unity and determination unfolded as more than 300 Pakistani Christians congregated outside the Pakistani High Commission in London to protest the devastating incidents that unfolded in Jaranwala, Pakistan. The protest, held at 2:00 PM on Monday, August 21st, served as a resounding call against the burning of approximately 100 homes and 25 churches.
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The event was notably attended by a number of dedicated volunteers from the British Asian Christian Association (BACA), including Juliet Chowdhry, along with her two daughters, Naomi and Willow.
Prominent figures who participated included Bishop Michael-Nazir, Dr. Peter David, Asim Mall of PMRO, and Pastor Chaugtai from Birmingham, Wilson Chowdhry of United by Faith among others.
The event featured a series of impassioned speeches that underscored the collective resolve to seek justice and restoration for the affected community. A delegation had the opportunity to engage with the High Commissioner for Pakistan for the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Dr. Mohammad Faisal, conveying the urgency of the matter.
The protest was not only marked by determined voices but also by moments of spiritual upliftment. Renowned Gospel singer Hammad Bailey and his wife Sally Bailey led the attendees in a series of worship songs at the outset of the event, fostering an atmosphere of unity and hope.
Subsequently, the peace rally proceeded to 10 Downing Street, where the demonstration continued from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Recognizing the toll of the day’s activities in the intense heat, the British Asian Christian Association offered water to provide comfort to the steadfast protestors who spent the day advocating for justice and peace.
Juliet Chowdhry, spoke at the event she said;
“The residents of Jaranwala have borne witness to the heart-wrenching destruction of their homes, forcing them to flee from the place they once called home.
“In a deeply distressing turn of events, 25 churches fell victim to attacks, with at least 21 of them suffering significant damage from fires.
“Although assurances have been offered by the Pakistan Government to compensate those who have lost their homes and to restore the damaged churches, the pervasive fear and anxiety that grip the Christian community persist unabated.
“These assurances, while appreciated, fall short in alleviating the profound emotional toll inflicted upon the affected individuals.
She added:
“For Christians in Jaranwala, the path to recovery and justice requires more than just promises—it necessitates decisive action.
“It is imperative that arrests are made and convictions are secured, with the full force of the law applied to every proven perpetrator of violence.
“The availability of numerous videos documenting the incidents presents a valuable resource for the pursuit of justice.
“The present moment is a test of the authorities’ commitment to ensuring justice for a minority community that has long endured marginalization.
“The willingness of the authorities to act impartially, transparently, and swiftly in bringing perpetrators to justice will serve as a litmus test for their genuine commitment to the well-being of all citizens, regardless of their faith.”
