Lahore, November 4 – On October 30, a Christian man, Zamran Asim, accused of blasphemy, was released on bail by the court after a prolonged struggle marked by high-stakes legal battles and significant security threats. The blasphemy charges against Zamran are connected to three separate first information reports (FIRs): FIR No. 464/23, FIR No. 454/23, and FIR No. 856/23, filed under sections 295-A-B and, in one instance, sections 295 A-B-C and 298-A. These charges stemmed from incidents where a bag containing blasphemous material and desecrated Quran pages was reportedly discovered near mosques in three different locations. These events were tied to the highly volatile Jaranwala incident, during which Christian churches and properties were targeted and attacked.

The Voice Society, a human rights organization, took up Zamran’s defence in December 2023, initiating an arduous journey fraught with danger. The legal team faced consistent life threats, coupled with overt hostility and bias from the courts in Sargodha and the Lahore High Court. The Sargodha Bar openly opposed The Voice lawyers, resorting to reading Quranic verses in court that allegedly called for the death of blasphemers and those defending them. Such acts, implying violence, compounded the already volatile environment, posing severe risks to the safety of both Zamran and his advocates.

Local religious leaders and their supporters intensified the pressure, shadowing members of The Voice Society and making attempts to intimidate them outside court proceedings. These persistent threats underscored the immense challenges associated with defending individuals accused under Pakistan’s stringent blasphemy laws. The precarious situation reflects the hostile climate for defenders of religious minorities, amplifying the need for international and local advocacy.

Zamran’s trial remains pending in the Sargodha court, presenting yet another formidable challenge. The transport of Zamran to court hearings continues to be a significant security risk, necessitating extensive precautions for him and his legal team.

Defenders of religious freedom and human rights globally have highlighted the courage of groups like The Voice Society, who continue their work despite facing grave personal danger. This case calls for urgent attention and support from both local authorities and the international community to ensure safety and promote fair judicial processes.