Charsadda man held for blasphemy
The Charsadda police said that they have arrested a man for alleged blasphemy. Police said the suspect was accused of issuing disparaging remarks against prophets by locals in Shaheed Bazar area of Prang tehsil of Charsadda district.
Locals told the police that the suspect had allegedly used derogatory language against Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in front of scores of people. The police immediately arrested the suspect. They further said that a few years ago, a brother of the suspect had been killed by unidentified armed people over a similar accusation.
Later, hundreds of locals stormed the local police station demanding the suspect be handed over to them. Police said the mob also damaged the property of the police station. The protesters then went to Farooq Azam Chowk where they staged a protest against the police.
Police officials informed that a committee has been formed comprising local religious and political leaders which will oversee that the suspect is charged under relevant laws. Police said an FIR was registered against and the protesters have been dispersed.
Published in The Express Tribune, September 21st, 2020.