One Christian man was killed and at least 30 others were injured when a speeding truck crashed into an Easter sunrise procession in Wazirabad district in Pakistan’s Punjab province early Sunday (April 5), authorities and church officials said, as national leaders marked the holiday by praising Christians for their "admirable services" to the country.
The incident occurred as more than 300 members of a local Catholic community took part in a candlelight procession en route to Easter morning prayers at a church in Maryamabad. The tragic incident cast a shadow over otherwise peaceful celebrations in Pakistan marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Father Shahrukh Nathaniel, a priest present at the scene, said participants had been singing hymns and lighting fireworks when a poultry-laden truck approached from the opposite direction and rammed into the procession.
“Our people were celebrating peacefully, offering prayers and singing, when suddenly this truck came at speed and caused devastation,” Fr Nathaniel said. “Several people were run over, while others were struck and thrown aside. Many sustained serious injuries.”
According to local media reports, those with minor injuries received first aid at the scene, while approximately 25-30 victims were transported to Gujranwala Medical College Teaching Hospital for further treatment.
One of the injured, identified as Irfan Masih, succumbed to his injuries on Monday night. At least four others remain in critical condition.
The truck driver, identified as Muhammad Bilal, fled the scene, while police detained his assistant, Abdul Hanan. Authorities have registered a case against the absconding driver under Sections 337G and 279 of the Pakistan Penal Code, along with Section 99 of the Punjab Motor Vehicles Ordinance, 1965.
Preliminary investigations suggest that excessive speed may have caused the driver to lose control of the vehicle, although police cautioned that it was too early to reach definitive conclusions.
“We are examining all aspects of the case,” a police official said. “At this stage, there is no indication that the incident was intentional, but the investigation is ongoing.”
The incident has raised concerns among community leaders and human rights advocates over safety arrangements during public religious gatherings, particularly for minority communities.
In a statement, Punjab’s Minister for Minorities Affairs, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, said the provincial government was ensuring the best possible medical care for the injured and would bear all associated treatment costs.
“The government stands with the affected families in this difficult time,” Arora said.
The matter was also raised in the Punjab Assembly on Monday, where Christian lawmaker Falbous Christopher called for a thorough investigation and stronger protection measures during minority religious events.
“Four Christians remain in critical condition, while many others have sustained fractures to their arms and legs,” Christopher said. “It is deeply unfortunate that adequate safety and security arrangements were not in place. We demand accountability, proper medical care for the injured, and financial compensation to support victims during their recovery.”
Easter, one of the most significant observances in the Christian calendar, is widely marked across Pakistan with special prayers, processions and community gatherings. However, such public events have at times raised security concerns in a country where religious minorities have faced sporadic violence and discrimination.
Pakistan's leadership extends Easter greetings
Separately, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended Easter greetings to the Christian community, commending its contributions to the country’s development and emphasizing the importance of interfaith harmony.
In his message, President Zardari praised the Christian community for its “continued role in national development,” particularly in sectors such as education, healthcare, defense and social services.
He said Easter conveyed universal values of “compassion, hope, renewal, and the triumph of life over death,” adding that these principles should guide societal interactions in Pakistan.
“Christian men and women serve with dedication in our schools, hospitals, public services and armed forces,” the president said. “Their contributions are integral to the functioning of our society and deserve recognition and respect.”Zardari also reiterated the state’s responsibility to uphold equal rights for all citizens, referencing the vision of Pakistan’s Founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah for a country founded on equality and freedom regardless of religion or ethnicity.
“I reaffirm the government’s commitment to ensuring the protection of life, property, and dignity of all communities,” he said. “We must continue to foster an environment of mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.”
Prime Minister Sharif, in his separate message, extended greetings to Christians both in Pakistan and around the world, acknowledging their “admirable services” across various professional fields.
“The Christian community continues to play an active and invaluable role in Pakistan’s economic and social development,” he said. “In today’s challenging global environment, the message of peace inherent in all religions is more important than ever.”
Sharif emphasized that safeguarding the religious, economic and educational rights of minorities remained a key priority for his government. He also underscored the importance of unity and collective effort in building a harmonious and inclusive society.“Religious harmony and our multicultural fabric reflect the strength of our nation,” he said. “Let us renew our commitment to work together, with sincerity and dedication, for the progress and prosperity of our country.”
