Pak Punjab CM rules out desecration of Quran in Gojra

Lahore, Aug.2 (ANI): Punjab Chief Minister Rana Sanaullah has ruled out purported 'desecration' of the Quran by people of Christian community, which is seen as the prime reason behind Saturday's communal violence in Gojra town in which seven Christians, including three women, were burnt alive and over dozen wounded.

"Authorities had investigated the allegation of a Quran being defiled, and our initial reports say that there has not been any incident of desecration," Sanaullah said.

Communal tension started to flare nearly a week ago following allegations that a copy of the Quran was dishonoured.

Sources said the protesting mob turned violent when some suspicious armed men joined the protest and started attacking houses belonging Christians.

Eye-witnesses said the attackers were members of a banned outfit and carried sophisticated arms.

Emboldened by the attackers, the mob started throwing acid and petrol bombs on the houses, forcing the people to come out, an eye-witness said.

Locals said the casualty may rise as many people are still feared trapped inside the rubble of houses destroyed in the attack.

Federal Minorities Minister, Shahbaz Bhatti claimed that the rioters belonged to Sipah-e-Sahaba, a banned terrorist outfit.

Bhatti said he had directed the area's police to beef-up security and ensure safety of the Christians, but officials did pay heed to his instructions, The Daily Times reports. (ANI)