ISLAMABAD: The prime minister and leaders of different political parties have expressed concern over the alleged desecration of the Holy Quran in the Larkana district and a subsequent arson attack on a temple and Dharamshala.
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said providing security to the minorities was the responsibility of the government.
He directed provincial governments to take measures to protect the life and property of people belonging to the minority communities and ensure that no one created a law and order situation.—APP
Amir Wasim adds: PPP leader and former president Asif Ali Zardari directed the Sindh government to safeguard life and property of people belonging to the minorities.
He asked the government to investigate the incident and allow no one to disturb peace and harmony among followers of different religions.PPI news agency quoted Muttahida Qaumi Movement leader Altaf Hussain leader as saying the government should take steps to protect the life and property of the Hindus and their places of worship.
In a statement from London, he urged the Sindh government to take action against those responsible for the two incidents.
Gohar Ali Khan adds from Hyderabad: Jamiat Ulema-i-Pakistan chief Sahibzada Abul Khair urged people to protect the life and property of minorities.
If any body committed blasphemy, he said, he should be arrested and punished but a temple should not be attacked for the act of an individual. Meanwhile, leaders of nationalist parties and other organisations condemned the two incidents and called for a judicial inquiry.
They said that arson attack on the temple and harassment of Hindu people was against the teachings of Islam which promoted peace, tolerance, brotherhood and protection of minorities.