LAHORE, Nov 16: All mainstream churches in the country will observe a token protest and prayers day on Thursday (today) to invite government’s attention to the insecurity of minorities and stressing the need for a long-term solution to problems of religious intolerance and discriminatory laws.

All the church-run schools and colleges will remain closed while the Christian community in Sangla Hill will observe a day of fasting prayers on Friday (tomorrow).

Announcing this in a statement issued here on Wednesday, National Commission for Justice and Peace spokesman Peter Jacob said the decision had been taken in view of burning of three churches and destruction of pastor’s house belonging to the United Presbyterian, the Salvation Army and Catholic Church in Sangla Hill on Nov 12.

The incidents took place after some individuals incited the people on the basis of unfounded allegations of the desecration of the Holy Quran.

He also condemned the arrest of innocent persons in connection with Sangla Hill incidents and said that the police had booked over 80 Muslims in cases without proper investigation which was against the principles of justice.

Mr Jacob also demanded cancellation of the case registered against Yousaf Masih.