A Sikh caretaker couple was shot dead by unidentified gunmen inside a gurdwara in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Wednesday, triggering widespread condemnation from political leaders, religious figures, and members of the Sikh community. The tragic incident occurred in Babu Mohallah of Mardan district, located around 60 kilometres from Peshawar.
According to police officials, the attackers entered the gurdwara and opened fire on the couple, identified as Jagannath and his wife Asma Wanti. Both victims died on the spot. The assailants fled immediately after carrying out the attack, prompting a large-scale investigation by local law enforcement agencies.
Mardan District Police Officer Masood Ahmed confirmed that an inquiry has been launched to determine the motive behind the killings. Police teams have been deployed to gather evidence, identify the attackers, and bring those responsible to justice.
The incident has sparked outrage among political representatives and the Sikh community. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly member Suresh Kumar strongly condemned the attack and demanded the immediate arrest of the culprits. He called on law enforcement authorities to demonstrate significant progress in the investigation within 24 hours.
Kumar expressed concern over how such a serious attack could take place despite the presence of security personnel in the area. He also sought a transparent and impartial investigation into every aspect of the case.
Raising questions about the handling of evidence, Kumar alleged that the Digital Video Recorder (DVR) containing CCTV footage was removed from the crime scene in a careless manner. He said the handling of the footage could affect the integrity of crucial evidence and urged authorities to ensure proper forensic examination.
The lawmaker called upon senior police officials, including the District Police Officer, Regional Police Officer, and Inspector General of Police, to personally monitor the investigation. He further demanded accountability for any officials found negligent in their duties.
Warning of public protests if justice is delayed, Kumar announced that peaceful demonstrations could be organised in Mardan, Peshawar, and Islamabad if the investigation fails to produce meaningful results or if the attackers remain unidentified.
Meanwhile, police authorities stated that special investigation teams have been constituted and are examining multiple angles of the case. Officials said modern forensic techniques and advanced technological tools are being employed to trace the suspects and establish the circumstances surrounding the attack.
The killings have also drawn strong reactions from Sikh religious leaders and political figures in India. Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Kuldip Singh condemned the murders and urged Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Khan Afridi to take swift action against the perpetrators and ensure exemplary punishment.
Rajya Sabha MP and BJP National General Secretary Tarun Chugh also criticised the Pakistan government, alleging that it has failed to provide adequate protection and equal rights to minority communities. He called for stronger measures to safeguard the lives and religious freedoms of Sikhs and other minorities living in Pakistan.
The incident has once again raised concerns about the security of religious minorities in Pakistan and highlighted the need for stronger protection of places of worship and vulnerable communities.
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