Widespread Use of Blasphemy Laws in Pakistan
Hundreds of prisoners in Pakistan remain incarcerated under blasphemy charges, many from minority religions such as Hinduism and Christianity. Rights groups report they face severe discrimination and mistreatment in the justice system. The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) ranks Pakistan’s blasphemy laws second only to Iran’s in severity. Sentences range from ten years in prison to the death penalty.
Reports of False Accusations and Abuse
Research shows that many blasphemy charges lack credible evidence. Once convicted, prisoners endure harsh conditions. The National Commission for Justice and Peace (NCJP) released “Hope Behind Bars” on August 15, highlighting the extreme treatment of those accused of blasphemy. Prisoners often live in unsanitary spaces, denied access to necessities such as soap and blankets, which are provided to other inmates.
Harsh Prison Conditions for Christians
In one documented case, the state convicted 100 Christians in 2015 for alleged lynching and vandalism. Authorities placed them in a room once used for tuberculosis patients. They were forced to drink from Lotas, vessels meant for toilets, and told to clean their hands by rubbing them on cell walls. Officials withheld hygiene supplies, further worsening their conditions.
Rare Acquittals Amid Long Sentences
Court hearings for blasphemy charges often never occur. Yet on June 25, 72-year-old Christian Ankwar Kenneth was acquitted after 23 years on death row. His lawyer argued he was of unsound mind, and the Supreme Court ruled that mentally unstable individuals cannot be held criminally responsible. Kenneth’s release was a rare instance of relief in a system where over 700 Christians still await the death penalty.
Supporters and Critics of the Laws
Supporters argue that blasphemy laws protect Islamic values and social harmony. Critics counter that they are widely misused to persecute minorities and settle personal disputes. Religious freedom advocates stress that Pakistan’s practices violate human rights standards, while families of prisoners continue to call for reform and justice.
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Study Shows Pakistani Christians Endure Persecution in Prison
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