Protests in Karachi Over Ehsan Shah’s Death Sentence for Blasphemy
In Karachi, Pakistan, several people from the Christian community and civil society protested against the death sentence of Christian youth Ehsan Shah, who was convicted of blasphemy. The protestors called his conviction the ‘wrongful application of blasphemy laws’ and demanded his release.
The demonstration took place outside the Karachi Press Club and included members from the Christian community, the Minority Rights March, the Aurat March, and civil society representatives. They also called for measures against those responsible for the arson of churches and homes in Jaranwala.
The anti-terrorism court in Pakistan sentenced Ehsan Shah to death for allegedly sharing a social media post that reportedly incited riots in Jaranwala last year. Judge Ziaullah Khan imposed a harsh penalty, including a 22-year prison term and a fine of Pakistani Rupees (PKR) 1 million.
The riots started over accusations of desecration of the Quran and led to extensive destruction, including damage to homes and churches belonging to the Christian community. Initially, Punjab police had charged approximately 135 individuals for attacking the minority community, but most were later released on bail, leaving only 12 still undergoing trial.
The issue of blasphemy allegations in Pakistan is highly contentious and sensitive, often leading to severe repercussions such as violence and fatalities. False accusations of blasphemy are frequently used to settle personal vendettas, target religious minorities, or stir up communal unrest. These allegations often trigger immediate public outrage and mob violence, endangering the lives of the accused and their communities.
According to the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP), there have been numerous cases of baseless blasphemy accusations over the years, disproportionately affecting minority groups such as Christians and Ahmadi Muslims. Several incidents have resulted in deadly violence against individuals accused of blasphemy or their communities.
International human rights organizations have repeatedly raised concerns about the misuse of blasphemy laws and the lack of due process in Pakistan. Despite both international pressure and domestic advocacy, the Pakistani government has been criticised for its failure to amend or repeal blasphemy laws.
