Evangelical body condemns beheading of Sikhs in Pakistan

An Asian evangelical body has condemned the brutal beheading of two Sikhs by a militant group in Pakistan.

Bodies of Jaspal Singh and Mahal Singh were found in Khyber and Aurakzai regions Sunday after their kin failed to pay a ransom allegedly demanded by Taliban.

The militants had demanded a ransom of Rs 30 million to be paid by February 20. This is reportedly the first time a Sikh has been killed by militants.

Reports have also confirmed that more members of the minority community are being held as captives.

Condemning the beheading, the Asia Evangelical Alliance – an association of evangelical bodies - called the Pakistani Government to ensure protection of minority groups in the country.

"AEA calls the Pakistani government to ensure the safe release of those still in the custody of militants," stated a release by general secretary of AEA, Rev. Dr. Richard Howell.

Howell appealed the government there to "make every effort to ensure the protection of minority groups, especially their right to religious freedom."

The Indian government has strongly condemned the "barbaric" beheading and has sought the safety of all minorities in the country. The issue is likely to come up during the two countries' talks on February 25.

Meanwhile, reports have also emerged that the two Sikhs were beheaded after they refused to convert to Islam.

Last year, Islamic militants in Khyber Agency had imposed 'Jizya' or religious tax on Sikhs, Hindus and Christians. Those failing to make the payment will either have to convert to Islam or leave the tribal belt.

Khyber Agency is one of seven semiautonomous tribal agencies along the Afghan border.