Pakistan’s Blasphemy Law Still Devours the Innocent | Column

Pakistan’s blasphemy law claimed two more lives this month, in the ordinary sense that matters most: two men now sit in prison, facing a possible death sentence, over words a neighbour didn’t like. This is a column, not a news report, but the underlying facts are documented and sourced below.

Samuel Arif, 26, was arrested on August 29 in Lahore’s Muslim Town after a man accused him of making derogatory remarks about the Prophet Muhammad and his wife Aisha. He is charged under Section 295-C of the Pakistan Penal Code, which carries a mandatory death sentence, and Section 298-A. Amir Masih, 30, a labourer, was arrested on August 11 in Gujranwala District after posting a social media video comparing Jesus Christ and Muhammad. He faces the same 295-C charge alongside 295-A and 298. His family is now in hiding.

Even the government admits the cases are often fabricated

Pakistan’s own data undercuts the law it enforces. A government statement in July found that a majority of 333 blasphemy cases reviewed over five years across four provinces were fabricated, often used to settle personal disputes. Rights groups working both cases, HARDS Pakistan and HRFP, say the same pattern looks likely here: an accusation weaponised, then a court system too frightened of mob violence to dismiss it quickly.

Pakistan ranks eighth on Open Doors’ 2026 World Watch List of countries where Christians face the harshest persecution. Free Thought Daily has reported previously on how online accusations alone are enough to trigger arrest under this law, regardless of evidence.

A law that its own government’s data shows is routinely abused deserves repeal, not tinkering. Until Islamabad acts, Samuel Arif and Amir Masih will keep sitting in cells built by other people’s grievances.

Fact basis: Morningstar News, Sept 2, 2026; Christian Daily International, Sept 2026; Pakistan government statement, July 8, 2026; Open Doors 2026 World Watch List. This is a labelled opinion column.