Why Are Muslims Killing Muslims In Pakistan?
Violence between Muslims in Pakistan is escalating, with increasing casualties and unrest, and could lead to a civil war, raising concerns for India.
Recently, a shocking and violent conflict has erupted in Pakistan, where Muslims are killing other Muslims. This violence, which is not caused by terrorists or armed groups, is between Shia and Sunni Muslims, two different sects of Islam.
The conflict began on November 21, 2024, when a convoy of Shia Muslims was attacked by gunmen, killing 43 people and injuring 11 others. This led to three days of violent clashes in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region, near the Afghanistan border. More than 317 shops and 200 homes were attacked, and reports say that over 150 people have died so far. More than 300 families have fled the area due to the increasing violence.
In Pakistan, about 97% of the population is Muslim, with 85% being Sunni Muslims and 15% Shia Muslims. This division has caused tension for years, with Shia Muslims often facing violence.
The violence between these two groups is not new. In the past, similar violence has occurred in other countries, like Iraq. In Pakistan, between 1987 and 2007, over 4,000 Shia Muslims were killed in such clashes.
This conflict is also significant for India. The region of Gilgit Baltistan, part of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), has a large Shia Muslim population. Due to violence and displacement, Shia Muslims are now a minority in this region. One day, India hopes to take back PoK, and the ongoing violence could affect this situation.
Along with this, Pakistan is dealing with two other major issues. Former Prime Minister Imran Khan is in jail, and his supporters are protesting violently, resulting in deaths and injuries. Also, China has invested heavily in Pakistan, but Chinese citizens in the country are being targeted and killed. This has led to discussions about China sending its army to Pakistan, which could lead to even more instability.
Given these serious issues, there is a high chance of a civil war in Pakistan. India, along with Iran, may need to raise their voices to help protect the Shia community in Pakistan and prevent further violence.
What are your thoughts on this crisis? Should India take action to help the Shia Muslims in Pakistan? Let us know in the comments.
