Assassination of Shahbaz Bhatti, Federal Minister for Minority Affairs

Lahore, Pakistan: March 02, 2011, (PCTV Newsdesk)

Mr. Shahbaz Bhatti Federal Minister for Minority Affairs was assassinated by unknown assailants on March 2, 2011, near his residence in I/8 Sector, Islamabad. He received 30 bullets which were fired by two gunmen with automatic rifle(s). He was rushed to a Hospital by his driver, however pronounced dead by the doctors. 

While the Taliban claimed the responsibility, the attack was widely condemned at national and international level. President, Prime minister of Pakistan, Chief Minister Punjab, Muthida Qaumi Movement, Minister for Foreign Affairs Germany, Pakistan Muslim League N, Civil Society of Pakistan and Christian leadership has strongly condemned the assassination of Mr. Bhatti.  His funeral is expected to take place on March 4^th, and the burial would be in Khushpur, his native village near Faisalabad. 

The back drop of the assassination is the need and demand to bring about changes in the blasphemy laws of Pakistan with their known abuse and discrimination. 

After the assassination of Governor Salman Taseer who expressed sympathy for Aasia Bibi a Christian convict under the blasphemy law, this is another attack on the freedom of expression and conscience of the people of Pakistan and sovereignty of the state. The extremist forces want to silent all enlightened and moderate voices. The country has lost a patriot and progressive voice. 

Public reaction 

• Demonstrations were held in Islamabad, Lahore Karachi, Multan, Quetta and other cities of Pakistan condemning the incident. 

• The Churches announced closure of Christian schools, etc. through out the country for three days mourning, while the Sunday (6^th March, 2011) will be observed as a day of prayer and fasting.  

• There will be a demonstration in Faisalabad on 3^rd March.

 

NCJP
Peter Jacob