Christian Muslim personal dispute was resolved successfully on 24.06.2024

Peacemakers play a crucial role in bridging the gap between the police and communities. These individuals often have deep-rooted connections within the community and possess the trust of both law enforcement agencies and residents. By acting as intermediaries, peacemakers facilitate constructive dialogue, defuse misunderstandings, and prevent further escalation of conflicts. Their presence helps to reassure community members that their concerns are being heard and addressed through peaceful and lawful means.

Personal disputes may have severe consequences especially when there is an involvement of groups. In the case of the Christian families in Jangi, Ferozwala, the dispute not only strained relations between relatives but also drew in members of the local Muslim community. This can exacerbate existing tensions and create rifts between communities that have been living peacefully for decades.

Moreover, a peacemaker contributes significantly to promoting long-term peace and harmony. They work tirelessly to build relationships built on mutual respect and understanding among diverse groups. By advocating for tolerance and cooperation, they encourage communities to resolve disputes through dialogue and mediation rather than resorting to confrontational or violent measures. In times of crisis, their role becomes even more vital as they promote reconciliation and foster a sense of unity within the community. Ultimately, peacemakers serve as catalysts for positive change, ensuring that conflicts are managed in a manner that upholds societal harmony and strengthens the fabric of communal relations.

It was a hot 24th  day of June 2024, I was sleeping when my phone bell rang and I received a phone call. “come to the Police Station, Peoples Colony, Gujranwala. There was an urgent issue.” 

I approached the police station within 30 minutes I met Mr. Bilal a Station House Officer (SHO), Police Station Ferozwala. A Christian Parishioner informed Roman Catholic Priest Fr. Emmanuel a Parish Priest of Saint Mark’s Parish who came there along with some Christian and Muslim people. Mr. Bilal briefed that Someone from Christians called at Police Help Line that Some Muslim residents of Jangi village attacked the houses of Christians. When police approached the Jangi village, they came to know that it was a personal dispute between two Christian families, and one family is supported by some local Muslim friends.”

Furthermore, such incidents can perpetuate cycles of mistrust and fear between different religious or ethnic communities. The involvement of outsiders in a personal dispute can deepen divisions and make reconciliation between the original parties even more challenging.

Both parties were detained at the local police station, we visited them separately and inquired about the truth. It was clear like crystal that there was only personal dispute. 

All dignitaries, including myself, reprimanded the Muslim Christian youths that it is not appropriate to give a religious color to the mutual fight as it creates misunderstanding.

Later, we went to the office of the Deputy Superintendent of Police, People Colony, and met Mr. Arif Khan, a nice officer. He thanked me for coming late at night at his request. There was a paper stating that there was no religious tension in the village, I signed the paper as a member of the District Peace Committee that peacemakers should play their role to maintain peace in Jangi village and I will guide the concerned stakeholders.

So, it was the Dawn of the next day when I returned from the police station. I am habitual to perform these kinds of tasks late at night as a peacemaker.