Instead of reforming its draconian and dangerous blasphemy law, the National Assembly of Pakistan has passed a bill that further strengthens and weaponizes it.
The bill, passed on January 17, proposes to increase the punishment in cases pertaining to the blasphemy of Prophet Muhammad’s companions, an offense under section 298-A in Pakistan’s penal code.
The bill seeks to increase the period of detention, currently set at three years, to a minimum of 10 years and extendable up to lifetime imprisonment, along with a fine of 1 million Pakistani rupees (around $3,600).
It also suggests modifying blasphemy to a non-bailable offense. Shias in Pakistan, who make up about 20 percent of the country’s population, have come out strongly against the bill, saying it is yet another way of victimizing and violating the freedom of religious belief.
Already, Pakistani Shias face a growing threat of violence from terrorists; further weaponization of the blasphemy law would increase their persecution.
