Prem Kohli, a Hindu member of a religious minority community in Pakistan, has emerged as a true hero for his courageous actions to protect the body of Dr. Shah Nawaz Kunbhar, a Muslim health professional killed by police on blasphemy allegations.
Despite facing threats from an angry extremist mob, Kohli risked his own life to save Dr. Shah Nawaz’s body from desecration and later ensured a respectful burial. His actions have garnered widespread praise and admiration, highlighting the importance of human compassion and unity in the face of religious intolerance.
Dr. Shah Nawaz Kunbhar, a resident of Umerkot, Sindh, was fatally shot by police in Mirpurkhas following his arrest on blasphemy charges. After his body was handed over to the family, an extremist mob attempted to burn it, but Kohli managed to escape with the body and later buried it.
The incident sparked outrage and widespread protests in Sindh, with thousands of people from all walks of life attending Dr. Shah Nawaz’s funeral. The attendees chanted slogans against religious extremism and the misuse of the blasphemy law, which has led to numerous violent acts and extrajudicial killings in Pakistan.
The mob that attacked Dr. Shah Nawaz’s body included members of the far-right Tehreek-i-Labaik Pakistan and other extremist groups. Videos from the funeral show the crowd chanting against religious extremism and terrorism.
Dr. Shah Nawaz’s grave was adorned with the traditional Sindhi shawl Ajrak, and people sang folk songs at his final resting place. Many attendees also paid tribute to Prem Kohli for his selfless act of bravery.
The police team involved in the alleged encounter has been suspended, and an investigation is underway.
The events surrounding Dr. Kunbhar’s death highlight the enduring power of human compassion and the importance of standing up against extremism. Prem Kohli, Masood Lohar (who led the funeral prayer), and Allama Abdul Momin Memon (who conducted the funeral) are among the many Sindhis who have become beacons of hope and inspiration. Their actions have shown that even in the face of adversity, humanity can prevail.
Dr. Shah Nawaz Kunbhar’s tragic death serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of religious extremism. However, the response of the Sindhi community offers a message of hope and resilience. Their unwavering support for Dr. Kunbhar and their courageous defiance of the mob demonstrate the power of unity and the enduring spirit of human compassion.