Christian sentenced to death over 'blasphemous' WhatsApp text

Yasir Bashir complained he received poem that was derogatory toward Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)


Afp September 15, 2017
PHOTO: AFP

LAHORE: A Pakistani Christian man has been sentenced to death for blasphemy after he allegedly sent a Muslim friend a poem on WhatsApp that insulted Islam, a lawyer said Friday.

Millions of Pakistanis receive blasphemy warning texts

Nadeem James was charged in July last year after his Muslim friend Yasir Bashir complained to the police that he received a poem on the messaging app that was derogatory toward the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and other holy figures.

"James was handed a death sentence by the court on Thursday on blasphemy charges," defence lawyer Anjum Wakeel told AFP.

"My client will appeal the sentence in the high court as he has been framed by his friend who was annoyed over James' affair with a Muslim girl," Wakeel said.

Lawmakers call for 'review' of blasphemy law

He said the trial was held inside a prison due to security reasons after local Muslim clerics had threatened James and his family. Court officials confirmed the sentence.

Blasphemy is a hugely sensitive issue, where even unproven allegations can stir beatings and mob violence. In 2014, a Christian couple were lynched then burnt in a kiln in Punjab province after being falsely accused of desecrating the Quran. Rights groups have said the laws are routinely abused to seek vengeance.

COMMENTS (2)

Farhan | 7 years ago | Reply I hope the high court will reject the case
BrainBro | 7 years ago | Reply This is what true Pakistan is.
Replying to X

Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.

For more information, please see our Comments FAQ