GILGIT: Police in Gilgit-Baltistan on Wednesday detained four individuals accused of sharing “blasphemous content” on social media, following protests in parts of Gilgit against the alleged posts.
Demonstrators staged rallies and blocked sections of the Karakoram Highway, demanding action against those responsible for hurting religious sentiments. The protests ended peacefully after authorities assured participants that the accused would be arrested.
According to a police statement, the arrests were made as part of a crackdown on individuals accused of spreading communal hatred and blasphemous material online. Officials said action was taken under a zero-tolerance policy against content deemed offensive to religious sentiments or harmful to social harmony.
The identities of the four suspects were not disclosed. Police also appealed to the public to assist in identifying others involved in sharing such material.
In a separate development, a resident of Gilgit’s Naumal area was arrested on similar charges. A case was registered against him under Sections 298 and 153 of the Pakistan Penal Code, as well as provisions of the Anti-Terrorism Act.
Caretaker Home Minister Sajid Ali Baig said during a press conference that a comprehensive investigation was underway and assured that those found responsible for inciting discord would face strict punishment.