Qaiser Felix

Irfan Masih, 11, succumbed to gunshot wounds he suffered to the head. Five other people were also injured in the attack during which Islamists set fire on Christian homes and Bibles. Activists complain about police inaction.

Six people are wounded by gunshots, including an 11-year-old boy, now in critical conditions. Residents in the area that was attacked have locked themselves in. the attack comes after pro-Taliban slogans, calling on Christians to convert to Islam, appear on church walls.

Archbishop Saldanha denounces the violation of minority and women's rights. The archbishop expresses his concern "in matters concerning criminal justice," and denounces abuses and violence by the Taliban toward Christian, Sikh, and Hindu places of worship and schools. The Catholic Church supports the Muttahida Quami Movement, the only party that has opposed the "forces of darkness."

Sufi Muhammad says there is “no room for democracy” in Islam, a Western “system of infidels.” Taliban kill a couple accused of adultery. Activists and political leaders accuse the government of handing over the valley to extremists. Afghanistan is concerned of “dire consequences” for the whole region.

James and Buta Masih had been imprisoned since 2006 on charges of burning a copy of the Qur'an in the street. The court has declared the charges unfounded, and has ordered their release. A Catholic priest calls for the repeal of the law on blasphemy, which he calls "killer."

Fundamentalists threaten to kill lawmakers for “apostasy” who voted against proposal. Catholic activist slams the presidential signature, expressing appreciation for the courage of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement, the only political party that did not vote for the pro-Sharia resolution.

About one million Catholics live in the country, 1% of the population. For Holy Week, the bishops have asked the government for extraordinary security measures. The government has promised that next year, Good Friday will be an official holiday. Meanwhile, thousands of faithful are filling the churches of the main cities. In the prison of Faisalabad, 100 prisoners are celebrating Easter with a lunch organized by the priests.

Protests and demonstrations against Islamic fundamentalist madness are organised in many Pakistani cities. Supreme Court starts hearing to determine who is responsible for whipping the young woman, who refuses to testify fearing retaliations. Extremists reject accusation, claiming the video is a “fake”

The video was deliberately recorded and released by the fundamentalists, for propaganda purposes. The Swat Valley has become a reign of terror under Sharia.

The security forces have regained control of the police academy. The updated victim tally is 40 dead and 90 injured. Peter Jacob, secretary of Justice and Peace, calls for "national unity in the fight against terrorism." Government sources say it was an attack by jihadists who use the collaboration of "elements coming from abroad."

The enforcement of Sharia has led to the closing down of NGO offices, the end of polio vaccination for children and left hundreds of lawyers out of a job. Extremist groups plan to demand the implementation of Islamic in every district of the province. Civil society groups and human rights activists are sounding the alarm.

Women cannot go out unaccompanied or speak in public but must cover their heads. Girls’ schools could be closed for good. Local Catholics and Protestants fear for their future; some are starting to leave the region. Taliban militia leader threatens new judges; anyone not applying Sharia correctly will be removed from office immediately.