A Franciscan-led initiative has helped defuse religious tensions in Lahore’s Kahna Nau area following a blasphemy-related incident that threatened to escalate into violence.
According to a report by AsiaNews, Fr. Lazar Aslam, a Capuchin friar, led an interfaith delegation to address fears and unrest after Zafar Masih, a man suffering from drug addiction and mental health issues, accidentally set his house on fire.
The fire burned pages of the Quran and the Bible, triggering accusations of blasphemy and raising fears of retaliation against the local Christian community.
Local tensions flared as some Muslim youths issued threats of a mob attack. The Christian residents, already wary after a similar incident in Jaranwala, Punjab, in August 2023, sought immediate intervention to ensure their safety.
The interfaith delegation, comprising Fr. Lazar Aslam, Pastor Asif Ehsan Khokar, and Islamic scholar Mufti Syed Ashiq Hussain, met with Assistant Superintendent of Police Maaz Ul Rahman to seek protection for the residents and explain the situation. Authorities responded swiftly, taking Masih into custody and restoring calm.
“The relationship between Muslims and Christians is an integral part of Pakistan’s common history and must be protected,” said Mufti Ashiq Hussain, stressing the need for unity in such moments.
Fr. Lazar Aslam highlighted the delegation’s role in easing tensions, saying their efforts were “essential to maintaining peace between the Muslim and Christian communities.”
Deputy Inspector General of Punjab Shahzada Sultan commended the efforts during a meeting of religious leaders, peace advocates, and community representatives on Dec. 14.
He praised Fr. Lazar Aslam’s leadership and announced plans to recognize ASP Maaz Ul Rahman for his handling of the incident.