Deadly Sectarian Clash Erupts in Pakistan’s Punjab Province

A violent clash between Shia and Sunni sects in Kalabagh Town, Mianwali, Punjab, left two Shia men dead and over 30 others injured. Authorities deployed paramilitary forces to control the situation. Conflict arose over a Shia procession route; banned group Lashkar-e-Jhangvi suspected in involvement.

A deadly sectarian clash in Pakistan's Punjab province resulted in the deaths of at least two Shia men and injuries to over 30 individuals, police reported on Wednesday. The violence has forced authorities to deploy paramilitary forces to regain control.

The conflict erupted between Shia and Sunni sects in Kalabagh Town, Mianwali district, approximately 400 km from Lahore. Tensions had been simmering over the route for a Shia procession commemorating the Chehlum of Imam Hussain.

A senior police officer indicated that the Sunni community objected to the procession passing by their mosques, while the Shias insisted on taking that particular route. The disagreement led to deadly crossfire, predominantly affecting the Shia Muslims. Police suspect involvement of the banned group Lashkar-e-Jhangvi. Authorities have imposed restrictions and increased patrols in the area to prevent further violence.

(With inputs from agencies.)