Blasphemy Related Killings in Pakistan Raises Alarms
Last week, the tragic death of Shah Nawaz, a 32-year-old doctor in Pakistan, shocked the nation. Accused of insulting Islam’s Prophet Muhammad and sharing “blasphemous” content on social media, Nawaz was fatally shot by police under the pretext of resisting arrest.
The incident, which marks the second such killing within a week, has sparked outrage and concern regarding extrajudicial actions against individuals accused of blasphemy. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has strongly condemned these killings, emphasizing the dangerous trend they represent.
A Disturbing Trend in Pakistan
In a country where blasphemy is punishable by death, Pakistan has witnessed a rise in blasphemy-related killings, often incited by mere accusations. Lynching of the accused before trial has become alarmingly common.
Urgent calls for government intervention to amend outdated blasphemy laws have surfaced, as the misuse of such allegations continues to fuel violence and incite vigilante justice.
International Pressure and Calls for Action
The international community has been urged to pressurize Pakistan to address the issue of blasphemy killings, with the threat of sanctions being suggested as a possible course of action.
Although the problem persists, raising awareness on a global scale keeps the issue in focus, compelling the Pakistani government to confront the challenge it has long evaded.
Edited by: Wesley Rahn