Renala Khurd, Pakistan — A peaceful Christian worship gathering in Punjab’s Okara district was allegedly disrupted by police officials, triggering protests and outrage within the local Christian community over claims of harassment, misconduct, and religious discrimination.
The incident occurred on May 12, 2026, in Renala Khurd, where Christians had gathered for a religious event reportedly organized with prior approval from the Home Department. The gathering was attended by local worshippers along with a foreign guest who had travelled to Pakistan to participate in prayer activities and promote a message of peace and interfaith harmony.
According to eyewitnesses, the worship service was underway when police officials entered the venue and allegedly ordered the gathering to be stopped. Community members claimed that the Station House Officer (SHO), reportedly acting on instructions from senior authorities, disrupted the event and behaved aggressively toward church leaders and participants.
Witnesses further alleged that one pastor was physically assaulted during the confrontation and that his clothes were torn by police officials. The foreign guest attending the event was also reportedly forced to step down from the stage. Participants said the incident created panic among women, children, and other worshippers present at the gathering.
Serious allegations have also emerged against a security official identified as Hammad. Members of the Christian community alleged that the official demanded and received PKR 170,000 in exchange for providing security clearance and permission for the event. Despite the alleged payment, police later halted the gathering.
Following the incident, angry protesters staged a demonstration and temporarily blocked Multan Road, demanding justice and accountability. Protesters called on the Punjab government and Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to take immediate notice of the matter and order an independent investigation.
Community representatives demanded legal action against the District Police Officer (DPO) Okara, the SHO, and other officials allegedly involved in the incident. They argued that the actions violated constitutional protections guaranteeing freedom of religion and peaceful worship for all citizens.
Human rights advocates say the incident has once again highlighted concerns among religious minorities in Pakistan regarding alleged discrimination, police harassment, and restrictions on religious freedom.
