Lahore: Former provincial minister for human rights and minority affairs, and current Member of the Provincial Assembly, Ijaz Alam Augustine, has urged the government to amend the death penalty law, ensure impartial investigations into blasphemy cases, and release all innocent individuals wrongfully imprisoned.
Speaking at an event marking the World Day Against the Death Penalty, Augustine emphasized the growing global trend towards abolishing the death penalty, while highlighting the severe risks of false accusations in Pakistan. "In Pakistan, anyone can be falsely accused and entrapped under the blasphemy law," he stated, adding that the country’s legal system has failed to punish those who make false accusations, resulting in widespread violence and destruction.
Augustine pointed to various blasphemy cases, noting that investigations often reveal different facts than the original accusations, yet no action is taken against those who file false charges. He argued that incidents like the recent mob violence in Jaranwala could have been prevented if those guilty of making false allegations had been held accountable. "Communities have been burned down, lives have been destroyed, yet the real perpetrators remain untouched," he said.
The event was attended by religious scholars, pastors, lawyers, civil society representatives, and journalists. Arne Arthur, head of the social organization Redemption and the event organiser, noted that over 3,000 people are currently imprisoned in Pakistan due to false blasphemy charges, and the judiciary has shown reluctance in hearing their cases.
Punjab Union of Journalists Secretary Hasnain Tirmizi addressed the challenges faced by media outlets when reporting on sensitive blasphemy cases. He stressed that if the truth behind incidents in places such as Kot Radha Kishan, Sheikhupura, Jaranwala, and others had been thoroughly investigated and reported, it would have revealed the real perpetrators and victims.
The speakers called for reforms to ensure fair trials, justice for the innocent, and stricter action against those who exploit blasphemy laws for personal gain.
