Shafique Khokhar

Hundreds of people demonstrated in different cities. The Diocesan Commission for Interreligious Dialogue in Faisalabad organizes a Muslim-Christian meeting. Fr. Mendes: terrible to offend the sensibilities of Muslims. Muslim leader: the authors must be tried by “ Shariah courts." And thanks to Christians for solidarity.

She was raped in the man's home, where had been taken with a ruse. After he sexually assaulted her, he left her on the floor, unconscious. After arrest, he is waiting for trial. The girl's father is already receiving threats and pressures but wants justice. Vicar general complains that the rich and powerful think they can get away with it.

The Islamabad court will decide on bail for disabled Christian girl accused of blasphemy on September 3. The National Commission for Justice and Peace reopens the debate on education in Pakistan and denounces: in Punjab and Sindh 2012-2013, textbooks filled with hatred and false history against Hindus, Christians and people of India.

Suneel Masih, an orphan, disappeared on August 19. His body was found two days later in a remote area. Some internal organs removed, probably for the black market. His face disfigured with acid. Police Officer confesses to never having seen "such a murder." The Christian community calls for justice, but so far not even an investigation has been opened.

In Faisalabad, Muslims and Christians remember the idea of nation promoted by its founding father, Ali Jinnah, in 1947. "Today's reality is far from" that, Christian activist says. Muslim assemblyman predicts communal relations will improve, but abductions and forced conversions push hundreds of Hindu families to flee.

Youth from all the parishes take part in a meeting in Punjab. Topics examined at the event included the role of media and coping with different environments and people. Participants also discussed the fight against drugs and the proclamation of the Word of God. Youth have the task of building peace, Diocesan Youth Commission director says.

Punjab Pakistan People's Party MPA Najmi Saleem introduces proposal in provincial assembly. Christians welcome the decision; however, they note it should have been done when the Catholic air force hero died.

The kidnappers get Rev Victor Samuel to follow them claiming his wife had filed a complaint against him. Both she and his family deny the claim. Catholic priest points the finger at police because they "neither denied nor confirmed" whether the kidnappers were "actual agents or criminals." For Pakistan, it is both "shameful and a failure."

The well-known human rights activist receives death threats. "I devoted my life to marginalised and oppressed people," Asma Jahangir said, "I will not be deterred." Politicians, religious leaders and members of civil society come out in a show of solidarity. NCJP leaders call on the authorities to guarantee her safety. "[W]e are all with her," Peter Jacob said.

Two months after his death, the Christian community remembers the high-ranking Air Force officer and Catholic leader. Hundreds or people attended the memorial service, including Muslims. Human rights activist remembers his capacity to stand up to discrimination. For Fr Mendes, he was an honest family man. For a young Pakistani woman, he was "My hero and ideal."

Islamabad and provincial governments should promote initiatives for inclusion in society and the world of work. Criticism of neglect of the political class and the lack of adequate legislation. Women activist: break down barriers. Muslim lawyer: many challenges and obstacles to be overcome.

To date, the police refuses to liberate the girl, despite the repeated requests of the family. Mary Salik (fictitious name) was kidnapped last May 4 near Faisalabad by an uncle who had converted to Islam. The girl's father denounces conspiracy against his family: "My daughter has heart problems and was kidnapped by deception".