(UTv|COLOMBO) – Dozens of people have been arrested in Pakistan after a teenager accused his Hindu headteacher of blasphemy, sparking riots.
The principal, who owns the school, was accused of making comments about the Prophet Muhammad in Sindh province.
A large mob then allegedly attacked a Hindu temple, shops and the school in the town of Ghotki on Saturday.
The principal is now in custody facing blasphemy charges. If found guilty, he could face the death penalty.
The rioters have also been charged under the blasphemy act, according to reporters in Pakistan. However, they face a lesser charge of attacking a temple which does not carry the possibility of a death sentence.
Pakistani media reports say 43 people were charged in connection with the attack. A number of others were charged with rioting and theft, Dawn newspaper reports.
“Alleged accused in a sensitive case of Ghotki is now in the custody of police,” Dr Jamil Ahmed, the additional inspector general of the local police force, tweeted.
“Situation in Ghotki is back to normal within 12 hours. Fair investigation is being done after confirming facts and justice ensured. Cases against hooligans are being registered and miscreants being nabbed.”
(Agencies)
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