In a significant development, an anti-terrorism court has sentenced one of the culprits of the Jaranwala riots to death, along with a 10-year jail term and a fine of Rs3 million. The verdict, which follows the horrific attacks last year on the Christian community in Jaranwala — where dozens of churches were desecrated and homes vandalised — comes as a much-needed assertion that hate-fuelled violence will not go unpunished.

We perceive this as a welcome step, not only in terms of delivering justice but also in reaffirming the foundational promise of Pakistan — that every citizen, irrespective of their faith, is equal before the law. The decision must be applauded, and more importantly, upheld as a precedent. It is high time the state demonstrates not just symbolic solidarity with religious minorities, but tangible protection, bolstered by legal accountability.

Let this case not be an exception. Let it be the beginning of a consistent, uncompromising message: that no one — regardless of numbers, slogans, or misplaced religious fervour — has the impunity to torch homes, desecrate places of worship, or take human life. Such crimes are not just an assault on a community, but on the very idea of Pakistan as envisioned by its founders.

The machinery of justice has long turned too slowly, too selectively. We hope this decision sets in motion a broader commitment to systemic protection of marginalised groups. It is the duty of the state not only to punish but to prevent — through better policing, stronger laws, and unwavering political will.

A single conviction, while commendable, does not undo the trauma inflicted. But if used rightly, it may ensure that such hate is neither repeated nor tolerated again.