The Lahore High Court has acquitted and ordered the release of Mr. Ranja Masih on 10 November 2006, after being held in isolation awaiting trial and appeal on blasphemy charges since 1998.

He was charged under section 295-C of Pakistan Penal Code for allegedly pelting stone and desecrating a signboard inscribed with Holy Kalima (proclamation of Islamic faith), and given life imprisonment in April 2003. Subsequently, his appeal was reportedly not heard after a lapse of more than 2 years. According to the local source, he has been receiving death threats from religious extremists in the past and currently still in danger after his release.

Blasphemy Laws have long been used against religious minorities, as well as Muslims and for settling personal vendettas and land disputes. Human rights activists in Pakistan continue to fight for its repeal. Hotline Asia issued UA051007(6) to urge for Mr. Ranjha Masih¡¦s trial to be heard in due time and for protection of his family. Several other UAs, UA980505(3), UA000525(8), UA001103(16), UA010905(9), SUA010113(1), SUA010802(3)and UA010905(9) were issued against the unjust law since 1998, and highlighted the related injustices.


Source:
Minorities Concern of Pakistan
National Commission for Justice and Peace
Local sources