What began as patriotic processions to mark Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day in District Faisalabad descended into violence against the Ahmadiyya community on Thursday. Within the jurisdiction of Dijkot Police Station, a mob incited by hate speeches attacked two Ahmadiyya places of worship in 275 Kartarpur.
Eyewitnesses reported that the mob tore down minarets and set one worship place ablaze. Both sites, community members say, were constructed before 1984. The violence, which continued for nearly two hours, reportedly took place without police intervention.
The mob also targeted nearby Ahmadi homes. Stones shattered windows as families sought refuge inside. Several Ahmadis were physically assaulted, including a youth struck in the head with a brick, while others were beaten with sticks. Multiple injuries were reported.
Community representatives condemned the attacks, stating that such acts contradict the vision of Pakistan’s founders. Human rights advocates have called on authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice and to ensure the protection of all citizens regardless of faith.