In a July 29, 2008 article in the Lahore-based newspaper Daily Times, Pakistani lawyer Taimur Malik called for reform in Pakistan's blasphemy law. This law, enshrined in Section 295-C of the Pakistan Penal Code, stipulates capital punishment for anyone found guilty of blaspheming the Prophet Muhammad. Taimur Malik, a practising lawyer, is executive director of the Research Society of International Law.
Pakistan's blasphemy law has made headlines for its social and political implications, especially its widespread misuse against members of minority communities. In numerous cases, Pakistani Christians have been implicated in trumped-up blasphemy charges by those desirous of grabbing their land. Sunni extremists have also brought many cases against Ahmadi Muslims, accusing them of blasphemy.
Politically, the level of mass sentiment against blasphemy was evident when, for several months in early 2008, religious groups across Pakistan led street protests against the Danish newspaper's reprinting of cartoons depicting the Prophet Muhammad, demanding an international law against blasphemy. Popular sentiment against blasphemy is strongly rooted in Pakistani society, making it difficult for political leaders to introduce legal changes. Read more ...
Pakistan's blasphemy law has made headlines for its social and political implications, especially its widespread misuse against members of minority communities. In numerous cases, Pakistani Christians have been implicated in trumped-up blasphemy charges by those desirous of grabbing their land. Sunni extremists have also brought many cases against Ahmadi Muslims, accusing them of blasphemy.
Politically, the level of mass sentiment against blasphemy was evident when, for several months in early 2008, religious groups across Pakistan led street protests against the Danish newspaper's reprinting of cartoons depicting the Prophet Muhammad, demanding an international law against blasphemy. Popular sentiment against blasphemy is strongly rooted in Pakistani society, making it difficult for political leaders to introduce legal changes. Read more ...
Source: MEMRI
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