Pakistan

Blasphemy case: Cleric offers Rs500,000 for Aasia’s execution

Imam offers Rs500,000 - warns government against any move to abolish or change the blasphemy law.

Express December 03, 2010

PESHAWAR:

A prominent cleric on Friday offered a reward of half a million rupees for executing Aasia Bibi, a Christian woman who was sentenced to death by a court on charges of blasphemy.

Maulana Yousaf Qureshi, the Khateeb of the historic Masjid Mohabaat Khan in Peshawar, offered a Rs500,000 reward for anyone who kills Aasia, Online news agency reported.

Qureshi also warned the government against any move to abolish or change the blasphemy law.

“No president, no parliament and no government has the right to interfere in the tenets of Islam. Islamic punishment (according to Muslim jurisprudence) will be implemented at all costs,” said Maulana Qureshi.

“We will strongly resist any attempt to repeal laws which provide protection to the sanctity of Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH),” Qureshi is reported to have told a rally. “Anyone who kills Aasia will be given Rs500,000 in reward from Masjid Mohabat Khan.”

“We expect her to be hanged and if she is not hanged then we will ask the mujahideen and the Taliban to kill her.”

Jamaat-i-Islami’s provincial spokesperson Israrullah has said that the case should be dealt with in accordance with the Constitution and laws of the land. He said that whatever Maulana Qureshi had said was his own personal opinion and not the party’s stated position.

Mian Iftikhar Hussain, the spokesperson for the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government, said that the case is still in court and its decision will be acceptable to everyone. He said such decisions cannot be taken on the streets.

Latif Afridi, a renowned lawyer and a former president of the Peshawar High Court Bar Association, said that no one in their right mind could make such a statement, referring to the Maulana’s statement regarding Aasia Bibi. He said that these are “a mad person’s words and are contrary to basic human rights”. He added that such remarks constituted an open threat to someone’s life and stern action should be taken against such an act. Article 506 of the Pakistan Penal Code can be applied in this case, he added.

SSP (operations), Peshawar, Ijaz Ahmed said that he was in no position to say anything definitive in this context but if a legal opinion comes from departments concerned, he would follow the law and take the prescribed route.

with input from REUTERS and our correspondent

Published in The Express Tribune, December 4th, 2010.

COMMENTS (200)

MALLIKARJUNA SHARMA | 13 years ago | Reply Rahim, It is not the question of money and how he got or gets it. He will be clever enough to state that 'On my call not five lakh but fifty lakhs 'allah ke bande' will come forward to donate to this cause' etc. But the point is it is a clear incitement to murder and we do not know to this day what exactly that poor woman stated to be declared blasphemous and whether it is correct to kill a woman or man for a mere statement even if that be slandering. I think no civilized society allows such cruel punishments.

Rahim | 13 years ago | Reply Where did he get Rs 500,000. Has he paid income tax on the money? (This sort of revenue that he has collected should be made taxable, if it is not already taxable.) No wonder Pakistan is bankrupt - all this blokes are not paying taxes on money they collect in return for useless rewards promised in the after life. And they dare incite murder in this life! Isn't inciting murder a crime? By the way, is the tax man going to collect tax from him?

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James B. | 13 years ago | Reply Religions don't seem to let you live in peace. So one needs to do more of the work oneself to understand life's deeper meanings and principals and not be reliant on leaders of questionable intent & principals..

ivy | 13 years ago | Reply Is that your God teach you to do???? you are merciful creature. whatever religion you belong, this is a crystal clear false faith. May God reveal Himself to those who persecute Aisha Bibi.

James B. | 13 years ago | Reply Religion and Gov't are to be separate . . . ( Best to down-play religious zeal and it is better to "self-actualize" yourself. You don't need Religious overseers dictating to you anyway, anymore. In The West many of us have removed ourselves from their doctrines and judgements. Do your own investigations into truth as to what is holy, etc. ie; Read up on deep psychology as science frees the mind from religious superstitions and speculations... Human beings are the same internally, everywhere you go. Don't discriminate against this group or that. Be broad minded. Love and support your fellow man/woman. This is a most worthy work.)

majid maqsood | 13 years ago | Reply i am ashamed to see our religious scholars on such decision!

Om@R | 13 years ago | Reply All i can say is..... pity the Nation.... should have been written for Pakistan not Lebanon. Anyone who does support blasphemy law supports murder of innocents and organised crime. What if this guy is a follower of Satan posing as a religious leader to mislead the masses. thats worse the blasphemy right??? Put up a reward of 1million for his hanging.... Sounds just right..... Freaking hate mongers!!!!

Narmeen | 13 years ago | Reply I'm pretty sure those Rs 500,000 could be put to much better use.

James B. | 13 years ago | Reply I forgot to add: I don't think a Martin Luther-King would ever have used such a tactic. One of his main mentors was (Opps!) that Mahatma Gandhi gentleman of far away South Asia . . . Thank you.

James B. | 13 years ago | Reply It's great to be so tough in the face of this kind of extortion/intimidation. What about places like Iran? What can the people do? What are they to do there I wonder? It's very high stakes I think . . .

Tahir Adeel | 13 years ago | Reply What I can infer about all these things is that we Muslims are actually not sure about what Prophet Muhammad has really said about this issue. If he has not said this then why some one like "Mufti Muneeb ur Rehman" who have knowledge of Islam believe that "Blashpemous" should be killed. On the other hand "Javed Ghamdi" is saying Prhopht Muhammad has not said this. The question is both Ulma are referring to Quran and Hadith and have a different view. It seems that history about exactly what Prophet Muhammad has said is not clear. We don't know cleary about Prophet Muhammad.

Pakistani | 13 years ago | Reply personally not a supporter of death penalty on blasphemy cases, having said that blasphemy law should not be abolished altogether there must be a penalty fines or prison if the court of law has enough dignity that it protects its authority through contempt of court legislations than my prophet's dignity and honour should weigh higher than that if not the same. As long as there is some one /authority who can hold an individual for contempt the blasphemy law should stand.

MALLIKARJUNA SHARMA | 13 years ago | Reply Zab786 - It is not just an expression of opinion by the cleric. He set a price of 5 lakhs on the head of that helpless woman and it is a clear incitement to and in legal language amounts to abetment of murder. That a cleric should stoop to such a low level shows the degradation of either the clergy of that religion or in general of that religion itself. If you want to hold your religion high, then clean it up from the soiling by such dirty clerics.

maz | 13 years ago | Reply It seems still people don't get it after all these arguments that their thoughts are HARMFULL for the country and its people May God Save Pakistan

Zab786 | 13 years ago | Reply I repeatedly saying that if a person use a non serious word against any Prophet its count as a blasphemy,so the Muslims cannot show their passions at there because a Muslim can sacrifise any thing on his Prophet(peace be upon him) love.At this act of aasia confess herself that she did this act her husband also along with her community admit her crime then the court announce his decision.Perhaps,non Muslim's feel that the punishment is so harsh our scholars can resolve their issue a bit, again i says that a Muslim can never be tolerate blasphemy against his Prophet.All the relegions of the world have their own rights they can't afford their disgrace at any level in India a Muslim will never be abused any temple or Idol if he did he face the revenge of Hindu community there,so we need to avoid such comments where we hurt each other because we knew less then little bit from the real and at here no body is perfect ALLAH forgive us all and those also who know nothing and trying impress here everyone, as a Muslim we cannot pardon aasia because she hurts millions of Muslims to admit a crime which cant be digest,only ALLAH and Prophet(peace be upon him) himself can do this,we can do this if she abuse me my father i deffinatly forgive her but here i can't.Allah knows better then us so do not make yourself as a judge here espeacially mr Ahsan and Beelal.

SUB | 13 years ago | Reply @Lughole: Dear Sir! You need to know more about this law and how it has effected more Muslims then minorities other wise you comment is out of context.

SUB | 13 years ago | Reply I meant Charged not changed

Beelal V | 13 years ago | Reply Janab Zabeeb Ulah Sahib,/Zab786 I am trying to knonk some sence into extremist thoughts.Our Religon does not support thease barbaric acts .IF HINDUS in INDIA are burning Churches and making it difficult for other minoraties like THE SIKHS and MUSLIMS they are Critised and it shows them in bad light not us. As it is we are geting a bad name through out the world for presumed that we are the supporters of Terrorists. We have to help change this preception and show the world that we are a tolrent nation We do not Kill people of Other religons legally. Church was burnt and Christans were killed by rouge elements in orissa India illigally the diffrence is we are doing the same legally The Mullah should not excite innocent people to commit a crime against humanity.We are not painting a good picture about ourselfs because a religous leaders are considered the Becons of our society Please do not support them through your articles or comments. It is hartening to read 90% comments in this blog are made by people who have tolerant thoughts as mine. May Allah be with all of us at all times of the day.and give us streangth so that Pakistan in particular is looked up as a very prospective and respect worthy Nation.Looking at Canada, Australlia, Newzealand and many other countries there is no Capital Punishment.Allah please give us streangth that we may not kill people in your name.

ahsan | 13 years ago | Reply @Zab786 : You need serious help brother ... No offense You said : All discussion made just only one persons opinion,…the cleric express his perception he has the right as we are doing here so whats the problem you have?.. My answer : I am amazed by your words, you ignoring people's opinion and giving weightage to someone's personel opinion who lost his brains, who is just another theorocratic tumour for the modest and humble islam ?? You said: In Islam we learn peace and harmony and we want it from our heart but if somebody acts gone to beyond the Islam we condemned it.In the aasia b.b matter i have already been spoken that the high court has been sentenced her the punishment by approvemnets of all allegations against her,and as a Muslim how can we tolerate that somebody stands and do this sort of criminal act as aasia didTrue muslim never tolerate... *My answer : I am happy that u believe in peacer and harmony but my friend if you want it from your heart then try to practice forgiveness as that is something Holy Prophet had been doing all of his life time. Aasia's crime was to say something unacceptable about Prophet, but my friend what about that woman who used to throw garbage on PBUH when she knew that he was going for prayers towards the masjid, did not Prophet forgive him, creating an example for the mankind to practice forgiveness ?? True muslim ? do you know who is a true muslim ? to me you are an ignorant my friend ... just another ignorant, maybe worst than those who know nothing about religion. You know a very little and you act accordingly, bringing more disgrace to the religion, more then what Aasia did, so shall we hang you too ???? My friend, Islam is a religion of peace and prosperity, and that can only be achieved by practicing forgiveness and tolerance. I believe if Porphet was here he would have straight away forgiven aasia, this is a question we all must ask from ourselves, are not we practically negating the teaching of Holy Prophet PBUH, by such comments from cleric i conclude that Aasia has done very little, yet more has disgrace has been brought to prophets name by these ignorant and theorocratic people. Open up your eyes my friend.... Dont defame islam please ... its my humble request ...

Ibrahim | 13 years ago | Reply If witnesses or evidence are found proving that the accusers conspired against Aasia Bibi, or that she is too uneducated and illiterate and not knowledgeable enough to make the blasphemy that she is accused of, then the accusers and Maulana who have lusted after her blood should themselves be put to death.

I Know An Extremist | 13 years ago | Reply We've started a project to condemn such extremist internationally. We wont be able to stop this unless we put up a brave front. And this should be done across the board through all religions.

Zab786 | 13 years ago | Reply All discussion made just only one persons opinion,...the cleric express his perception he has the right as we are doing here so whats the problem you have?.. In Islam we learn peace and harmony and we want it from our heart but if somebody acts gone to beyond the Islam we condemned it.In the aasia b.b matter i have already been spoken that the high court has been sentenced her the punishment by approvemnets of all allegations against her,and as a Muslim how can we tolerate that somebody stands and do this sort of criminal act as aasia did.The true Muslim never tolerate any word against their Prophet (peace be upon him) we respect all minorities and we proud that they are living with us with out any distinguishness.This is not India where a church burned and padri killed where Muslims faces lots of difficulties along with all minorities lives,so do not be passionatic at any particular act of any persons we all have the rights and opinion at every matter but in Islam matter only Muslims can express better then others not non muslim as we not suggest the solution on hindus and christians because we says do not touch anybodies religious matter.I think the main thing is understanding each others borders of limitations if some one cross the limits the result will be not good so stay in limit and respect the limits draw in Islam.

Ehsan Haq | 13 years ago | Reply Such characters only bring shame to the religion and country. Its not only this guy, but you would find plenty with similar mind-set. No logic or argument, but try to impose their opinion by force. I was watching last night a discussion on a private channel on the subject, wherein Mufti Muneeb was a participant, alongwith Javed Ghamedi. Mufti Saheb had no counter to Ghamedi's reasoning and arguments, but instead was only shouting personal attack on his opponent. These elements know nothing but tricks to exploit religious feelings of less or un-educated.

Osman Safdar | 13 years ago | Reply Maulana has gone mad.

Mansoor Noon | 13 years ago | Reply Asia Bibi should not be sentenced to death, even if she is proved to be guilty of the crime, she should be sentenced life time prison though, but killing is not acceptable at any cost. And there are many blasphemies are occured against other religions by Muslims (Churches, Temples are sst ablaze). All religions are innocent, and came for Human guide, we have to make such laws and regulations, which treat every citizen equally, either they are muslims or Non muslims to make sure justice and religious respect.

Usman N | 13 years ago | Reply nobody should have the right to judge the rights and wrongs of another. please let Allah do that. people who are calling for the lynching of this poor woman probably don't even believe in a higher power. @unknown lover, rohail, mushood sheikh, qudsia noori and owais iqbal: you people are an embarrassment to this country. please migrate and take this guy/mullah with you

Abdulhadi Hairan | 13 years ago | Reply This is a good proof and example of mosques being used as terrorism centers and violence inciting places. The mullahs are completely insane and should be punished for their violent activities.

ahsan | 13 years ago | Reply I want the express tribune to please share this message in their column if possible I was watching a news channel which showed some sort of rally as the mullahs came out of their homes protesting against asia, they loudly claimed that this law "the blasphemy" law is not new as Prophet PBUH developed/constructed/instructed such law in his living hood. What a shame, i cant express, how sad i felt after hearing their comments, If Prophet PBUH was to do such things then why he forgave that lady who used to threw garbage on Him knowing that Prophet PBUH is heading for masjid to offer prayers, why the Prophet PBUH forgave each and every person of Makkah and muslim won the war without sword, Why before every battle He used to clarify his troops that No child, woman, elder, ill, handicap should be executed. Lets talk about Hazrat ali, the legacy, i remember during a war He was fighting a one on one combat and the opponent spit on His face, he immediately left that person, upon asked that why he did so, he replied that i was fighting for Allah until he spit on my face, continuing the fight would have been my personal revenge so i left him. Sadly, we don't realize, the reason why islam is the religion of humanity and quran is a universal book is just because they teach us to practice forgiveness, and the answer to this question that should Asia be killed or not, lies within us ... we all know that if Prophet was alive, he would have forgiven her straight away, this is islam ... peace and prosperity. May Allah give hidayat to all the ignorants (Ameen)

Anon | 13 years ago | Reply Islam is a religion of peace and tolerance. All this hatred doesnot serve our religion well. The most prominent quality of Allah is that he is most compassionate, most merciful, and this is a predominant theme in the Quran. What then gives us the right to hand out death sentences with such callousness? Also, while one may question the validity of these blasphemy laws, we must also assess whether she is even guilty of the charges leveleld agaisnt her. Its all too easy to make allegations against someone to persecute religious miniorities.

J.Oberoi | 13 years ago | Reply It is amazing how many Pakistanis actually believe that they are of Arab origin. I don't know much about the Pakistani school curriculum to say if it is another one of those distortions of history but this refrain of the 'Arab brotherhood' with Pakistan in its midst is resonating more, thanks to the charlatan Zaid Hamid and a few others of his ilk. Maybe Pakistanis are not entirely comfortable with their roots. My question is: does it change anything? We are what we are whether we like it or not.

James B. | 13 years ago | Reply Maybe the first comment there that i read is good which says "Zero tolerance for extremist" .. but how to implement such a radical position!

Asim Ali | 13 years ago | Reply The Imam and his shenigans have taken us 500 years back into history. The blame square lies with the political/miltary establishment who have nurtured such hooligans and the country simply remains backward.

ikramullah | 13 years ago | Reply She should be sentenced to death, if she did committed the crime. Anyone who make any blasphemous act against any of the Prophet (Peace Be Upon Them) of Allah should be sentenced to death. This isn't about extremism its about the bride, its about the sacrifices made by all the Prophets (Peace Be Upon Them) of Allah for the humanity. Its not about Islam only, its also about Christianity and Judaism as well. We love all the Prophets (Peace Be Upon Them) of Allah. So no one have any right to say any thing to them for a wrong doing of an individual. May Peace be with u all.

Lughole | 13 years ago | Reply The poor woman's ordeal is now on BBC (see the video too, where her family is interviewed) - http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-south-asia-11923701

Arijit Sharma | 13 years ago | Reply @mmmalik-"Once we vanquished the mighty Christian knights during the crusades. We fought successfully the great Raja Dahir of Sindh. And now the venerable Maulana Yousaf Qureshi, the Khateeb of the historic Masjid Mohabaat Khan in Peshawar wants the scalp of an illiterate, poor Christian woman from the backwaters of Punjab. What a regression!" This comment is rather curious - who is this "we" ? Does "we" refer to the Islamic Ummah ? Does the writer of this comment realize that Pakistan is majority Muslim because Raja Dahir of Sindh was defeated by Arabs ? And that the defeat of Raja Dahir may be the reason he/she is a Muslim and not a Hindu ? Is the author suggesting that he/she is an Arab ? And please get your facts straight - the Muslim advance in Europe was halted by Crusaders.

Waqar | 13 years ago | Reply So, the Khateeb of the historic Masjid Mohabaat Khan in Peshawar has an allegiance with the Taliban? That is kind of ironic here considering the Taliban were allegedly responsible for the worst bombings in Peshawar recently where many innocent hundreds of lives were lost. One need's to ask what is his source for the Rs 500,000 being offered as bounty and who stands to gain from his inflammatory remarks? Problem - Reaction - Solution. Think!

Ibrahim | 13 years ago | Reply The blasphemy law is used for persecution only and should be repealed. There are better ways to protect the honor of the faith - probably by increasing acts of kindness not violence. But if the blasphemy laws will not be repealed, then at least they should try them fairly, and if the accusation is found false, then put the accuser to death because they tried to use the state and the law to commit murder for personal gain.

Sikandar | 13 years ago | Reply Wah bai wah

zarik | 13 years ago | Reply My God! God HELP us from these Mullahs

Muhammad Ali | 13 years ago | Reply i am a muslims and wats the imam says he is a terrorist if this is a islam which represent this imam i want to leave islam and i want be a christian

R S JOHAR | 13 years ago | Reply Its heartening to note that majority of Pakistanis have condemned the Maulana and this draculan law. More importantly, this law needs to be reviewed since the same was imposed by a dictator with the sole purpose of extending his rule by appeasing the Mullahs and religious parties and not for his love of Islam and Prophet. This dictator too was reponsible of creating terrorists organisations for which Pakistan is paying more dearly than India for whom they were meant for. These terror organisations have grown so strong that they have now challanged the state and almost at the threshold of ruling the country since the most powerful institute ie Army is still courting and consider them as their ASSETS. Only 'ALLAH' can save Pakistan.

Asim Angel | 13 years ago | Reply I am a Christian guy,19 years old, since my birth in Pakistan I was hearing about Islam,Islam,what kind of that Religion.? there is no Love,no Passion no affection for others.?, when others will see it,then how they will enter in Islam.you are killing to your selfs and your Pakistani mothers,and to siblings Christianity spread Love and peace for others,its a message for my whole Pakistani and other countries plz stop it then at last no will like to enter in Islam you are spreading fear in your religion so plz plz plz plz lzzzzzzzzzzz.be mercy and spread love.

PriyaSuraj | 13 years ago | Reply @Kamal and Beelal V, Thanks for your comments. Yes I am hindu and as long as there are people like us around, things are not all that bad. And I am sure for every one cleric (who preaches like this) there are at least 3 if not more people like us. We only need to speak louder than them to be heard and respected.

Lughole | 13 years ago | Reply Dear Zabeeh ullah, You have no right to take someone's life just because they said something bad about your prophet. Is he so weak and intolerant that he asks you to kill those who criticize him? Yeah if someone criticized my father I would reply back in the same coin, but I wouldn't kill that person. Maybe I would feel anger for that person, or even pity for him that he is resorting to abuse. Your blasphemy law is designed to persecute minorities..whatever you say otherwise. This case and your response only shows how deluded Pakistanis have become, approving the killing of people just because they cannot digest someone's views.

MALLIKARJUNA SHARMA | 13 years ago | Reply It is highly atrocious on the part of that Mullah. It is basically inhuman and I don't think any good religion preaches such inhumanity. After all, I would like to know what Aasia said and in what way it was an insult to Prophet and blasphemy? And I would like to know how can a Christian be tried under Islamic law? The penal code should be neutral for all religions. The Indian Penal Code was and is still now neutral to religions but the Pakistani fanatics changed everything, it seems, in their country. All such inhuman atrocities will only create a wild reaction against the religion of Islam itself and in due course either it will be extinct or will get reformed like in Turkey.

Waseem | 13 years ago | Reply @rohail ... No they are not key of islam. The holy prophet of islam hazrat Muhammad pbuh had called them the worst creature on earth. They are here to spread hatered and must be punished but regretabily our "awam" is so jahil that we dono read Quran we do not read hadith but we only listen to these jackals mullahs and belive what tjey are telling is true. These mullahs, jamat e islami was againt the creation of pakistan so wake up people they are not helping us but are actuallly destroying us.

Prince Shahryar Rana | 13 years ago | Reply Put these type of Mullas behind bar for inciting people. Where the court are ?

J.Oberoi | 13 years ago | Reply I can't understand why the mainstream media in Pakistan even serve up news like this. This is only hurting Pakistan's image and the religion since it is published world-wide. It is sick to read about such news. There's is so little value for life.

Zabeeh ullah | 13 years ago | Reply @zaheer,@lughole and @beela v Well it is clearly shows that you guys have enough temprament to listen the truth,.. and other side none of you so called champion of human rights gave my questions answers..!!!!well if someone abuse your father and your mother what will be your first reaction?..and as a Muslim how can we tolerate such sort of word against our Prophet Hazrat Muhammad(S.A.W.AL.M) and any other Prophet..,i totally respect all minorteise in Pakistan and i fully admire their contribution in society i suggests that we should look our selves first what we are then we criticise others and i must say one thing here that do not hit personally comments here just stay to write at the topic do not take it personal i m just write my own perception you can disagree with me but you dont have the right to pass such comments as upper you had shown your mentality absolutlly shame full comments you writes i against the secular Pakistan we will build Pakistan as Muslim state and we will succeed inshaAllah, and we love to live with all minoroteise they are not seperate.

Nurry | 13 years ago | Reply Why should I sit in the place of God and carry them over people? .. God himself can impose a sentence with his righteousness .. He who believes in God does not kill other people belonging to God. everyone belongs and is his property and nobody has the right to kill another human being .. So stop and sit on the holiness of God, for His wrath will befall anyone who follows injustice. God loves those who make peace among peoples and showing grace and mercy. God is love!

Lughole | 13 years ago | Reply In Pakistan, Christianity earns a death sentence - http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,2035196,00.html

Tanzeel | 13 years ago | Reply How about making a secular Jihadi organization against such Mullahs ?

Jameel | 13 years ago | Reply First if all this guy should be jailed immediately and the court should punish him for inciting religious violence.

Maggie Bockmann | 13 years ago | Reply Follow the money.

Nazir Habib | 13 years ago | Reply Frankly, what the real facts are only Almighty ALLAH and the involved persons know. We know that justice and witnesses are bought in the world. The people in Pakistan are illiterate and refuse to think before they open their mouths. There are many instances when persons guilty of blasphemy were allowed to apologize and repent and alternately there are instances when they were put to the sword. Justice must be lucid, swift and impartial. Not spread over years. The passage of time changes the interpretation of many incidents. If Aasia Bibi is guilty and truly repentant, promises not to speak blasphemous words, then forgive her but if she does not accept her mistake and repent, then put her to the sword. And if the case has been trumped up alongwith false witnesses, the accusers should be made to suffer the ignominy of falsehood and also never be trusted as witnesses ever again. May Almighty ALLAH give us hidayat

Salim Ansari | 13 years ago | Reply This fatwa, I am sure is being discussed all over the world. What is the world thinking of Pakistan? Very sadly, all this paints such a contrasting picture with India - which is being seen as a sea of peace and tranquility - irrespective of its multitude of languages and religions.

basharat | 13 years ago | Reply Molvi Yousaf Qureshi´s statement wherein he had offered a reward of half a million rupees for any one who kills poor Asia BB . This act of the cleric amounts to a serious criminal offence. One respectable commentator is of the view that it comes within the purview of section 153 PPC , Mr Latif Afridi , former president Peshawar High Court Bar Association , is of the opinion that the Molvi can be proceeded against under section 506 ppc ( criminal intimidation ) . The Provincial Government should show courage and come to the help of the poor lady , if justice and fair play have any significance in our country . Chief Justice , who is renowned for suo moto actions is quiet in this case . Violent mobs throng the courts which are entrusted to decide the cases of religious back grounds . For a long time , prior to incorporation of section 295c , cases of blasphemy were a dozen or so , the number has arisen into many hundred after it has become punishable with death.The situation is alarming which must be resolved with cool minds. Relentless efforts are required to be made to transform the environment of the country into a tolerant and peaceful society .

Beelal V | 13 years ago | Reply Zab786 --Shame on You Please do not use the Holy 786 after your name Zab. may Allah pardon you for your thoughts and knock Some sense in you. Prophet Sahib was for Peace and Wisdom You are neither wise or speaking like a man of peace. Allah Bless you soul.

Mehmood | 13 years ago | Reply it is none of business of minorities to insult our religion and also we are also prohibited. we respect minorities but this attitude is unjust. there is a conspiracy theory to blacken or image in the word so that pakistan is declared a sa terrorist country and thus america's door open.

Beelal V | 13 years ago | Reply Dear Danish---I read all the comments that sensible people have posted in this blog but your comments about priya have troubled me because her name looks like a hindu and inspite of beeing a hindu she has had courage to speak Allah's language of peace and harmony Ms priya Suraj thanks for speaking up against the ""ZULAM"" I join every one else on the Blog to Codem the Bad behavour of our Mullah Yousef Qureshi he has shown Islam in the Bad light.I pray to Allah to Forgive him for his attemt to murder. Beelal

Moix | 13 years ago | Reply due to several factors of his comment i would perceive that ZAB786 comes from the real middle class of Pakistan. this is what happens across the linguistic barrier. v need to get through to the other side

lyn Black | 13 years ago | Reply I think these people spend far too much time condemning people and not enough time loving people. They are mere men and no different than any man on this earth. Believe what you will as long as you are not hurting anyone. PERIOD...... Spread love and peace live any way you like it is your right. No writing how old they are should govern how anyone feels. Don't worry,,, just be happy.

Zahra Aamer | 13 years ago | Reply Hey, Mr. Cleric! Why don't you actually do an Islamic deed for once and give that money to flood victims or something?

zaheer | 13 years ago | Reply If somebody is good in pysiatric analyst in pakistan and want to eradicate terrorism gene from pakistani the excellent case study is right here Zab786.. Please read the person logic to bring so many unrelated troubling topics and justifying a murder which has got no connections to it and hiding behind the mask of patriotism ...true pakistani ,muslim etc... Brave skillful pakistani doctors please use this case study ..Zab786 ...For academic purpose , Psychiatry is the medical specialty devoted to the study and treatment of mental disorders—which include various affective, behavioural, cognitive and perceptual disorders

Lughole | 13 years ago | Reply Zab786, people like you will surely drown Pakistan into the dark ages, if its already not there that is

Pakistani | 13 years ago | Reply legislation against blasphemy needs to stay but the requirement of evidence must be stringent any case of blasphemy must not be decided on lower than high court level ... death penalty must always be determined by the supreme court (and if possible the defence counsel should be from minority community)

anila ansari | 13 years ago | Reply @ Veronique. I totally agree with you Veronique.People with such fundamentalist religious views are making the lives of many ordinary Muslims living in the West miserable.Living in multifaith and multicultural societies, they encourage Muslims not to mingle with Christians and Jews, openly promote segregation and try to convince the Muslim community that they are morally superior to the indigenous population.They shouldn't be allowed in western countries. Why don't they understand that we can't force people to respect others' religion by fear or intimidation.

M M Malik | 13 years ago | Reply Once we vanquished the mighty Christian knights during the crusades. We fought successfully the great Raja Dahir of Sindh. And now the venerable Maulana Yousaf Qureshi, the Khateeb of the historic Masjid Mohabaat Khan in Peshawar wants the scalp of an illiterate, poor Christian woman from the backwaters of Punjab. What a regression!

Tony Khan | 13 years ago | Reply I am an Ahmadi and a proud one and I want blasphemy laws to cover Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (AS).

Ashutosh | 13 years ago | Reply Hey what is the fuss about Arunditi Rao? The government did not take any action against her. The Police did not take any action against her. Until now she is totally free to speak or go where she choose to go. It was the inaction of government, that an activist when to Supreme Court and the Court then ordered the police to register and FIR and investigate the charges. And that is all the police had done until now. The Pakistani reaction is strange!!

Mulla Toofhan | 13 years ago | Reply @ZAB786 What has your History of hate, propagated by you got to do with Aasia BB case I don't see any connection ??

Zab786 | 13 years ago | Reply Well at least i appreciate this cleric first of all,and secondly are u all Muslims?if u are then how a true Muslim tolerate such sort of statement given by aasia bb?you are not looking what the exact thing had been done by the side of aasia bb, nankna court has been sentenced her hang till death with the proven of all allegations against her,now what is require this to justify her sin?,i think all of our young generation m also young like but never thinks like you that are,blaming Pakistan or religeion this is not your job men we are here to defend our land and makes the Islamic role on it,i ask a question to all of you that where were you when in India where 5000 innocent Mulims rotted by zionest hindus?where were you all when britain gave a title of sir to maloon rushdi?i ask all of you where were gones your humanity when in JAmmu and Kashmir's innocent women's raped by the Indian army daily and killing innocent Muslims brothers and sisters?i have lots of things here to jolt your dead soul but i dont know whether it comes alive or not but i know you all claim me as jihaddi or terrorist,but i will not hurt this at all because i am true Pakistani and Muslim also and have not such mission against any one,Pakistan zindabad

Usman Ahmad | 13 years ago | Reply OK....I mean... aaa.. where is Aasia bb?

Anis Qureshi | 13 years ago | Reply Mullahs and religious political parties of all denomination are defming peaceful religion of Islam. People like him should be thrown out of mosques and put behind the bars for life. They are black spots on a fair face of islam.

karim | 13 years ago | Reply vow what a brave man killing a women we thouth big show and under taker were the most powerfull wrestlers but we suddenly come to know clerics are too big wretlers just to kill women either in the name of religion or any other ways these men of bear find any kind of puff from femenin,,,,,,,,,,,maulana YUSUF KHAN SHABASH ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

Ch Allah Daad | 13 years ago | Reply Our first objective should be to save the life of poor Aasia. Nothing can save Aasia from these blood thirsty wolves. There are only two choices left for Aasia. First of all government should step in and send Aasia and her children out of country, and I strongly believe government will not do it, also our courts and media will not let it happen. The only other choice is that she converts to Islam and save her life. The other arguments to change or abolish blasphemy laws should be postponed for later dates, because at this moment nobody has gutts to change one coma or full stop of blasphemy law, and no one can guarantee the security and safety of Aasia.

Asad ullah | 13 years ago | Reply Dear All. Pakistan is a Sunni Muslim country. This is important since in Sunni Islam (as opposed to Shiah Islam) there is very much importance of the Maulvi or Alim. Muslims are expected to read the Quran and possibly the Hadith and gain their own interpretation. Why then do we allow these Imams (these are imaams and not religious scholars in true sense) to have such importance in our lives. Does anybody know which particular religious school this imaam belong to and what is the view point of the senior alims of that school

AB | 13 years ago | Reply I'll pay Rs 500,000 to punish this intolerant mullah!! Sad that this is done in the name of my religion.....

Umer Waqqas | 13 years ago | Reply This issue became famous when christian's POP II appealed to Pakistani government to pardon Aasia Bibi. Blasphemy law is very clear in the constitution. It should not be change! If Aasia done anything against Prophet (PBUH) then punishment is mendetory according to Islamic law. This cleric should be arrested on immediate bases and should be interrogated strictly by the law enforcement agencies, because he said that "if court will not hang her than i will ask to mujahideens & talibans to kill her".....It shows that he is directly or indirectly linked with them. There is heavy international pressure on Pakistani govt about all this. Western people say worst against Muhammad (PBUH), They dont respect Quran and sometimes they use Quran pages in their bathrooms. We know all this but we cant do anything except protest. We still remember Terry Jhons who announced "burn Quran day" on the anniversary of 9/11. But if such things happens inside Pakistan and still we dont do anything, It creates many questions on the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. I ask to those people who want to pardon Aasia....that describe me the logic through she may pardon?

Anoop | 13 years ago | Reply @Taimur, Ms.Roy hasn't put money on anybody's head or any one has put money on her head. So, what are you talking about? Stop comparing Oranges and Apples.

Concerned Omega | 13 years ago | Reply she is absolutely innocent until proven guilt (atleast 4 witnesses describing the event to be heard by 2 jury of highest order) so basically the maulana has ordered a hit on an innocent human being. He should be tried and convicted for murder as we have more than thousand witnessing his statement and offer, plus recorded evidence

Veronique | 13 years ago | Reply These people are invading western countries and I guarantee most of them have little or no sympathy for Aisia because she is Christian. When enough of these people get into our countries they will do the same thing to us. That is their objective. Why are we accepting such barbaric people into our countries instead of the christians who are the real victims.

Farhan | 13 years ago | Reply Prophet Muhammad pardoned the people of Makkah upon overtaking it...Are we really following his Islam or the other interpretation of Islam supported by Kings, Queens, half baked leaders......I wonder how we get rid of this .....so-called islam.....

Kamran Khan | 13 years ago | Reply Lahore High Court stopped Zardari to even consider clemency for Aasia Bibi. Why can't it take notice of this crazy mullah ordering daylight murder while the case is still subjudice?

Prince Shahryar Rana | 13 years ago | Reply we condemn who take laws into hands. Revise all constitution and punish corrupt leaders using innocent people for their Purpose.

Usama Zafar | 13 years ago | Reply @ sirius_warren: I'm up for it!!

Raheel Butt | 13 years ago | Reply the dilemma i have in mind right now is that in Islamic Republic of Pakistan... 1-the extermination cost of a a non Muslim i.e. an Infidel (Christians) is far more expensive than a Muslim life ...thats injustice 2- the protection of foundational ideology on which these so called protectors of Islam (Moulvi Hazraat) claim Pakistan was made...have become increasingly expensive to maintain against the very people Pakistan was meant to be destination as a second class or citizen (according to them obviously) 3-Thirdly if you can get 5 suicide bomber to kill about 100 Muslims with this amount of money ? that sure gonna cause some problem for the suicide bomber employer ? they need new HR policy perhaps ...which kinda sound good....... 4- what if a Christians kills her ? i mean he will kill her for money....and then some Muslim kill the bounty hunter for the money....now thats TWIST..... .

Omar Wynne | 13 years ago | Reply Did this * not challenge the writ of the govt by saying what he did?! I offer a lifetime supply of Pringles ( Sour Cream & Onion) to anyone who shaves off his beard. THERE! "kar dein mjhay daairae-islam say khaarij" I hate our hypocricy; media, politicians and everyone else: making a heroine out of a terrorist (Aafia) and not giving a * about a presumably framed villager (Asia).

Talha | 13 years ago | Reply @ Joginder Singh, Please read up on your history, the Mullahs of British India opposed Pakistan tooth and nail.

The Majlis-e-Ahrar-e-Islam and Jamiat-e-Ulema-Hind under Madni, resorted to the choicest abuse against Jinnah, calling him ‘Kafir-e-Azam’, the League ‘Kafir League’ and Pakistan ‘Kafiristan’. Other Islamic groups like Khaksar Tehreek and Jamaat-e-Islami also attacked the Muslim League for being too westernised, too worldly, a bastion of Qadiyanism and bedding the British.

Heretic, communist and Muslim Leaguer

komal | 13 years ago | Reply this man has lost it...out of his brains.he is a mischiefmonger looking for political benefit out of a poor mothers life... shame on him.such people are a disgrace to islam.he talks as if he is a witness to the crime.illiterate.truly jahil

sirius_warren | 13 years ago | Reply Okay I have an offer for Pakistani's, why dont we just pool in our money and round up these religious zelots for transfer to Gutanomo bay?

suneel | 13 years ago | Reply I think its an Indian RAW consipiracy.

Iftikhar-ur-Rehman | 13 years ago | Reply Anyone ordering or offering cash to kill someone should not be called Maulana or Imam. He is a simple Killer. He and the BUGTI who offered cash to kill Musharraf should be arrested and punished under Law of The land

Karim Khan | 13 years ago | Reply This is intolerable! Is there any government in this country? Why hasn't been this fanatic cleric arrested and jailed for life for instigating crime?

User | 13 years ago | Reply if this mullah is really a muslim then he is a blasphamer for saying something which our Prophet never said even Hazrat Ibrahim prayed for his father even though his father abused him and Allah so I thing this mullah should be hanged for creating fitna.he should remember than he too will be judged if not in this world then the hereafter . if he believes in the hereafter then he should be afraid of what will happen to him there this world is a test for us all

joachim Rana | 13 years ago | Reply Maulana Yousaf Qureshi, the Khateeb of the historic Masjid Mohabaat Khan in Peshawar, has violated law of land by crimenal intimedation u/s 506/B PPC and managed to make murder by sugesting killing of Aisa axtra judicaly. Does is it religion of peace Islam?

Chaudry | 13 years ago | Reply extremely sad..this molvi saab said that govt has no right to interfare in islamic laws..well..who has given him the right to interfare in islamic law..who is he..?? And Islam promotes love and peace..when Our Beloved Prophet(PBUH) forgave the women who used to throw garbage on him..and when she was ill..Holy Prophet went took care of her..this is the true teaching of islam..win hearts not try to gain your own benfits through power...and these mullahs qoute many incidents in which Holy Prophets ordered killing of Kufars..he ordered when they crossed thier limits and became a serious threat for islam...and if these mullahs claim that and court has given its verdict on death punishment to aasia bibi...did any one of them tried to tell that christian women who don't know about islam the importance of Our Beloved Prophet and his status?? they simply said to kill her...this means they have zero knowledge of islam and they cant preach even a single word Islam..(religion of peace)..and when u are zero in your knowledge then u start killing everyone...Shame on u mullahs..u are just BAdmash...and nothing...u don't have power even to preach a single thing of islam...Shame Shame...!!

Raheel | 13 years ago | Reply The sad part is, he's not the only mullah who thinks so. I'm sure more than half behind him have a more extreme view on the case.

Cherish Raj | 13 years ago | Reply Roy has a chance to defend herself on front of the independent Indian judiciary. But Cameron Munter can surely pardon the Christian woman.

Shenny Kaur, New Dehli | 13 years ago | Reply Is blasphemy against Baba Guru Nanak covered by Pakistani laws? If not, it should be covered.

M M Malik | 13 years ago | Reply If Muslims reflect the true teachings of the Holy Prophet (saw), nobody in his right mind will think of blasphemy. On the contrary they will all praise for Holy Prophet (saw). It is the faults and shortcomings in Muslims which when manifested in society, lead to blasphemy. It is for this reason Allah has ordained no punishment for blasphemy in this world.

Rizwan T Khan | 13 years ago | Reply I am ashamed! Allah please forgive us.

Narejo | 13 years ago | Reply Long live Islam as religion of peace and tolerance...

pastor Ilyas Ch. Nawab | 13 years ago | Reply This thinking is very shameful for human to not love & respect humanity. he intend to show that he loves prophet Mohammed (pbuh). does he has love to his neighbor? if he cant love man to whom he see how can he love God to whom he cannot see. So Mr.mullah try to be a man first and start to respect human life then only you can understand that what is LOVE.

QAMAR | 13 years ago | Reply can anyone suggest that what should be a punishment if someone speak against your holy prophet...........

Ahson Hasan | 13 years ago | Reply People such as this have destroyed the very soul of Pakistan and should be brought to the book by the government at the soonest possible. The problem with modern-day ( with mediaeval problems ) Pakistan is that the state has allowed ignorance to raise its respective heads and create an aura of fear and antagonism in the society. It would be interesting to probe as to where exactly he’s getting his funds, his voice and his strength to come up with such ideas. Pakistan has turned into a dreadfully, disgustingly dull country, thanks to the attitudes of Pakistanis who have suddenly turned militant about their faith. One comes across such people even outside the country – who do not know about reason and logic but exploit religion for justifying all their activities. In this day and age, Pakistan is pathetically behind time and advancement. Globally as well in Pakistan’s neighborhood ( prime example is India ), countries are doing well, well-enough to be talked about in positive light and be praised for the efforts to improve their national outlook. Pakistan, on the other hand, finds itself in a ‘pit of fire’, where is probably impossible to get out of.

sanjithmenon | 13 years ago | Reply Even when, mughals used to rule, the influence of the ulema was quiet bothersome. Only Allaudin Khilji and Akbar, could keep control. that is just two rulers in 1000 years. Poor Pakistan.

User | 13 years ago | Reply way to go...instigating and rewarding murder

Ch Allah Daad | 13 years ago | Reply In the presence of such Mullahs and their followers, the only option left for Government is to send poor Aasia out of Pakistan. No logic is going to change their minds.

Maulana Halwa | 13 years ago | Reply It's heartening to know that majority of support for Aasia Bibi are from muslims This shows that muslims are generally tolerant and forgiving except for few who are in minority. Lately it's a fashion in some circle of muslims to portray Islam as a rigid and intolerant religion where punishment is given more importance than compassion and forgiveness. Let not your beliefs turn you into a blood thirsty wolves. As for Sara P Noor May Allah open your heart to kindness and compassion

Joginder Singh | 13 years ago | Reply Just my two bits to the discussion. IMHO this blasphemy business is the logical culmination of the formation of Pakistan. Mr Jinnah, a supremely intelligent man, was the undoubted leader for the formation of your country but he couldn't really have done much on his own with mere support of the educated and middle class Muslims. It was the so-called "Mullas" and the fanatic mobs incited by them which were the deciding factor. If these gentlemen want the country which they helped to form should be ruled by them, they do have a point. If you try to secularise, your country will be torn apart.

Singh | 13 years ago | Reply Is it religion of peace, You guys always say peace upon him, why not peace among you. You guys need more of peace.

Someone | 13 years ago | Reply Just another constant reminder of how we have become a failed state.

Samuel Mathew | 13 years ago | Reply Please donate this Rs 500,000 to the flood relief fund. Or donate to the widows;whose husbands were died by suicide bombers. Or donate to any orphanage,The children lost their father and mother by the terrorists.

Umair Mallick | 13 years ago | Reply Dear Chief Justice, Perhaps other judicial, police and government officials are deaf, dumb and blind. Would you take notice of such a serious challenge to law? Dear friends of humanity, Come forward and show these mullahs their Islamic teachings are utterly un-islamic and make sure they get rewarded punishment according to real islamic spirit and legislation. Inciting to kill an innocent being who may have done some wrong in ignorance or wrong belief, and preaching hatred and lawlessness is a very serious offence against humanity itself not only islam or any other religion. These animals should be collected from mosques, madrasas, streets of our cities and villages and sent to special zoos made for them with facilities for healthy education.

Ali Zaidi | 13 years ago | Reply An irresponsible statement, to say the least.

Riaz Butt | 13 years ago | Reply The problem is that none of the political leadership/party has the courage to condemn them.

Dani | 13 years ago | Reply to all those who say nothing against the prophet... what world do u live in.. ?? how certain are you that she really did say anything against the prophet??? what if this is all cooked up which well might be as it is most of the time.. in this progressive age , people like you make us regress back in age!!

Jawad Rehman | 13 years ago | Reply What is most alarming in his statement is he is asking the help of Taliban to implement his fatwa. So, suddenly the murderers of thousands of Pakistanis and Muslims are on the 'good' side of the equation. What will it take for the nation to see these murderers and their supporters as bad guys? I am baffled. No other nation behaves this way against their enemies.

Syed Nadir El-Edroos | 13 years ago | Reply And to think that he went to sleep thinking that he had done his good dead for the day!

Hamid Ahmed | 13 years ago | Reply Enticing someone to commit murder is punishable by death, (Remember, Bhotto was hanged because he asked someone to kill). Our chief Justice love to make name by going after easy political targets, does he has the courage and will to stand up these illiterate mullahs and initiate a proceeding against them, which will be a noble thing to do. This guy is really challenging the justice system in our beloved country. Wake up Chaudhary Iftikhar, if you have some balls; otherwise you are one of thousands in my beloved country who go after cheap publicity. Whereas the respect of our Holly Prophet is concerned, Allah has promised that his Prophet's name will be always exalted (Al-Inshirrah -- ch 94-- and many others). I believe in Allah and believe in his promises, so I am not worried. Islam is religion of tolerance and love, Holy prophet did not order to kill a single kafar for being not respectful to Holy Prophet. Where the Blasphemy law comes from? Is it really based on Islamic teachings? Am I as a Muslim supposed to kill every person who does not believe in my Prophet? Definitely answer is big NO and anyone who thinks that answer is yes, that person needs to study Holy Quran, Hadith and history of Islam especially the life of Holy prophet since there is no better example than Holy Prophet himself. I can go on, but lets keep it short.

Liaquat Ali | 13 years ago | Reply The Prophet (pbuh) taught his followers how to show mercy on those who tortured him and his followers. Therefore, inciting hate in the name of the Prophet (pbuh) who is affectionately called "Mercy to the Worlds" by none other the Qur'an is beyond my comprehension. 1/3 of Muslim population lives as minority in the world. They are the ones will have to bear the burden of the enactment of silly laws and the award of hate. I am sure that this hateful person announces the head-money from one side of his mouth and calls Islam religion of peace from the other side of his mouth.

Souled | 13 years ago | Reply how much is an imam paid? can he justify that from where did he get those Rs. 500,000??

khalid.aziz | 13 years ago | Reply Suo Moto action against this Mullah, and that too by our courts having rightist inclinitions, looks like a far cry. Suo moto actions are mainly meant for liberal, forward looking political actors of Pakistan. Mullahs and Military alliance is exempt from this.

AT | 13 years ago | Reply If only the Prophet (PBUH) was here to see this..can't even imagine what he would go through.

Faisal | 13 years ago | Reply so many people talking against the Mullah.. Have people lost respect for My Nabi(SAWW) or are totally under influence of the evil??

Hina | 13 years ago | Reply *And this is why we're such a Cursed Nation! God have mercy on her and May Allah punish the haters

Arijit Sharma | 13 years ago | Reply @Taimur: "Anoop.. Please look at what your people have to say about Mrs Roy etc.. don’t teach us how to deal with such people.. fix your own house first." Roy's crime transcends all possible crimes - she has spoken against the Indian state. Just as she is free to speak what is on her mind, others are also free to speak up against what she has said. It is a two way street.

Lughole | 13 years ago | Reply Feel sad for those who support the so called 'blasphemy' law.

Pakistan One | 13 years ago | Reply The only way out as I see for Bibi is to revert to Islam which can save her life. The rest is futile talk.

Shahan Shahzad | 13 years ago | Reply Lord God have mercy on Aasia bibi and protect him..

Humanity | 13 years ago | Reply @Danish S wrote "hahahahaha i just can’t stop laughing reading this and the comments following it. Utterly hilarious!" What are you? What is so funny? Would you do hahahahaha if Aasia Bbi was your mother or sister or wife or daughter?Just do hahahaha and watch out as your turn is not too far mister ...

Bismah | 13 years ago | Reply Nothing against the blasphemy law at all, but these pro-Taliban people need to be removed from our society.

CCC | 13 years ago | Reply Just for the record, how much money did this guy donate for flood relief?

Taimur | 13 years ago | Reply Anoop.. Please look at what your people have to say about Mrs Roy etc.. don't teach us how to deal with such people.. fix your own house first.

CCC | 13 years ago | Reply This friggin mullah has no guts to do it himself, wants to hire a killer. If he was that passionate about blashpemy and Islam, bring the lady in front of him and ask him to do it in full public view. I bet he will fall at her feet. Time all minorities left Pakistan. Clearly, this is not a safe place for anyone, leave alone the minorities.

Danish S. | 13 years ago | Reply hahahahaha i just can't stop laughing reading this and the comments following it. Utterly hilarious!

Arifq | 13 years ago | Reply I am willing to double the prize money for anyone who will silence the mad mulla!

kittu | 13 years ago | Reply @Danish Abt ur comment ...you don’t worry about Aasia Bibi…..please take care of Arundhati Roy, and give her justice…..!!! stop poking your nose in Pakistani Affairs!!! Its not about being Indian or Pakistani..Its about being Human Being. More over Justice to Arundhati Roy is Guaranteed in India.

Moiz | 13 years ago | Reply Our pathetic silence in front of all religious radicals is the primary cause for this neo-hooliganism. Today its non-Muslims, tomorrow it will be Muslims, who refuse to follow the strict primitive regime forcibly imposed by this Mullah population, facing the brunt. Its time the educated moderates stand up and stuff the blabbering mouths of these ignorant idiots. If thats not possible, then lets all join in the social acceptance by calling Aasia a transgressor. Let the games begin!

Aamenah | 13 years ago | Reply Why is this man not behind bars? People like him are the reason why discriminatory laws like the blasphemy laws are still in place. The government needs to stop succumbing to demands of these fanatics. And where does this guy get his Rs. 500,000?

khurram kaleem | 13 years ago | Reply The Supreme Court should take notice of this imam.He is shame on our religion. Some one should take action against him for inciting hatred and religious disharmony. Check his credential!!!! Publicity starved imam

Ali Haider | 13 years ago | Reply Another hate loving Moulvi has come up and spreading hate in the name of the most loving person on earth (Hazrat Muhammad PBUH). With moulvis like these we will never progress.

anila ansari | 13 years ago | Reply Pakistan should do more to stop the persecution of minorities - be they racial, ethnic, religious, gender or sexual orientation.

Jonaid Iqbal | 13 years ago | Reply Has Maulana Qureshi violated the law of land by inicitng people to kill a ciitzen? Then the law should come into play against him

Imran | 13 years ago | Reply Should I say this is the true face of Islam ? What a pity.

Humanity | 13 years ago | Reply @Sara Perriand Noor wrote "Zero tolerance for anything against our Holy Prophet (peace be upon him)." Ms.Noor, you certainly don't believe in following in the foot steps of the Holy Prophet (pbuh), do you? Do you know that Allah declared him in the Quranto be a mercy for the universe? Your statement contradicts the Quranic depiction of the Holy Prophet (phuh). Is your belief not blasphemous, as you seem to be Muslim? God have mercy on your soul if you have one! This devil incarnate mullah should be punished for creating disorder according to the Quranic injunctions for his crime.

Saamia | 13 years ago | Reply Arrest him. Lure his supporters, arrest them. Lure their supporters, arrest them. Then release the woman and give her asylum in another country. May Allah give those misguided zealots some sense, and give the woman deliverance from her tormentors so she may live her natural life out in peace with her family.

sensible | 13 years ago | Reply @rohail: "Just think a minute before speakng against any kinda “Mulla or Maulana” they are the keys of Islam…………" Where did you get this idea? Unlike Christianity, there is no recognized clergy in Islam. There are no priests or popes. Islam is between each person's personal din and Allah. Mullah is a made up concept with no basis in Quran or Sunnah. I can assure you that majority of so called mullahs in Pakistan are no kind of alim, religious or otherwise. Rather they represent the worst sort of jahiliya.

Arsalan Khan | 13 years ago | Reply There are so many like him. Government should arrest this Mullah and send him behind the bars for his whole life.

Anoop | 13 years ago | Reply Pretty sure this guy wont be prosecuted.

M.S.Shaikh | 13 years ago | Reply To all the legal brains out there: Are such statements not punishable by law? Is suo moto indicated?

UmEr | 13 years ago | Reply I support the current blasphemy law but cannot comment of Asia's case, maybe she is guilty, maybe not, BUT this Mullah is a Jahil!

Malik | 13 years ago | Reply these people are so much focusing on Judgment given, i think anyone who knows about Judicial system of Pakistan - can understand the dominance of street power on justice, if the best Judge has given decisions against what he said now, how can we be sure that this judge is also correct. Simply this judgment is under threat of the street powers of these religious extremist which is very clear right now to everyone - they dont follow any law and they dont fulfill any of their promise, we need to find ways to get rid of them as early as possible

Ashutosh | 13 years ago | Reply Don't try to tell that you people are serious ...

Faisal Ayub | 13 years ago | Reply using religion as a weapon for political gains or fame...a technique used very often by such people, in our beloved country. there should be zero tolerance against them

Noman | 13 years ago | Reply The question is who paid him to say that ? Whoever paid him to give that statement must be paying him 50k for assassination. Saying anything wrong about this guy or other religious scholar would be wrong without proper investigation.

muzamal hussain | 13 years ago | Reply we r also muslims and lover our Prophet but this is really wrong from previous few days i am reading so many news about this thing and in majority of cases i found that people use this law for their own personal benefits Toba is also exist in our religion and if someone is truly shamed and want to do Toba truly if he or she done something like that than why all such things are doing by these mulanas on the name of Islam and Prophet Allah knows and watching us these people i am sure cannot be benefited of any thing but its my pray ALlah punished them in this world and even in life after death who r wrongly using these laws is kaam pay paisay rakhnay par bohat hi zeyada Dur Fitay Mun MUlana sb ap ka

Unknown Lover | 13 years ago | Reply She must be punished for her crime. Using volgur language against any of the Saint or Prophet is a crime in all cultures. If she didn't committed that crime, how come it was proved in the court.??? How come do you all know she didn't committed that nasty crime??? Astonishingly, not even a single non-muslim has ever been executed under Blasphamy law in Pakistan (all were Muslims).

Arijit Sharma | 13 years ago | Reply Do not forget to thank Muhammad-bin-Qasim.

Noman Jamil | 13 years ago | Reply I am anti pro-Talibans; and anti pro-secularists too. Punish her as the law states, if on any ground she is found to have committed an irreverence toward the Prophet(pbuh).

Aftab Kenneth Wilsonhttp://www.dawn.com/ | 13 years ago | Reply Is this fanatic moulana still roaming free on the streets?? If Aasia Bibi is not hanged or stoned to death then this Moulana must get this treatment so that people like him know the Taste of Death. Do we have any government in Pakistan or it is free for all ????

faraz | 13 years ago | Reply And these are the same mullahs who categorically refuse to issue fatwa against suicide bombings, sectarian killings and murder. I am not sure about Blasphemy but Quran has clearly declared murder a punishable offense. Where does their Sharia go when it comes to murder by militant organizations and Taliban?

rohail | 13 years ago | Reply Just think a minute before speakng against any kinda "Mulla or Maulana" they are the keys of Islam............ if one is said such WRONG thing it dosnt means that every your so called "Mulla" (in which Aalim also comes) is wrong they are serving our deen and duniya both if according to you these mulla's are Extremist so then you all liberal Fascist are also Extremists............According to Court of Justice Aasiya bibi has commited a Blasphamy so she must be Hanged to death and Shame on zardari & salman taseer .............they Didnt said a Single word for Aafiya siddiqui but are doing conferences for aasiya bibi who is convicted for blasphemy

IZ | 13 years ago | Reply Allah save Pakistan from the so-called "Islam" of these jackals.

Saad | 13 years ago | Reply These fanatics will never let us live in peace and harmony and progress ..

Mushood Sheikh | 13 years ago | Reply The way things are being reported in the Media about Asia is wrong, I disagree with this Masjid Imam too, that is not how the punishment should be given, say, by calling Taliban or whatever. It should be up to the courts to determine the case, if yes she said something wrong she needs to be punished, if no, then not; simple as that, why is there talk of abolishing or amending the law on the pretext of this lady's case in several Media reports? Or is there some hidden conspiracy behind?

ahmed | 13 years ago | Reply @Habiba Very true old man has lost it

Farhan | 13 years ago | Reply This is exactly why people are doubting the very religion of Islam is incomplete or completely distorted. I am sure we are bound to destroy ourselves with this mentality...unfortunately ...if you stand to this atrocity you will be blamed for kafir, murtid etc.... Government of Pakistan should pardon this woman and repeal this law which is against weak but loving minorities of Pakistan.

Faisal | 13 years ago | Reply Pakistan has a really bright future

T R Khan | 13 years ago | Reply Words fail to explain our state of affairs. We have to follow the footsteps of the Holy Prophet (saw) who was Rahmat ul Alameen and he forgave all blasphemers.

S | 13 years ago | Reply The good mullah needs to be criminally charged. Some excerpts from the Pakistan Penal Code that might be relevant tot he situation: 153- A. Promoting enmity between different groups, etc.: Whoever (a) by words, either spoken or written, or by signs, or by visible representations or otherwise, promotes or incites, or attempts to promote or incite, on grounds of religion, race, place of both, residence. language, caste or community or any other ground whatsoever, disharmony or feelings of enmity, hatred or ill-will between different religious, racial, language or regional groups or castes or communities...shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to five years and with fine. Statements conducing to public mischief: (1) Whoever makes, publishes, or circulates any statement, rumour or report-(b) with intent to cause, or which is likely to cause, fear or alarm to the public or to any section of the public whereby any person may be induced to commit an offence against the State or against the public tranquillity; or (c) with intent to incite, or which is likely to incite, any class or community of persons to commit any offence against any other class or community, shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to seven years and with fine. Punishment for criminal intimidation: Whoever commences the offence of criminal intimidation shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to two years or with fine or with both. If threat be to cause death or grievous hurt, etc.: And if the threat be to cause death or grievous hurt, or to cause the destruction of any property by fire, or to cause an offence punishable with death or imprisonment for life, or with imprisonment for a term which may extend to seven years, or to impute unchastity to a woman, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to seven years, or with fine, or with both. 508. Act caused by inducing person to believe that he will be rendered an object of Divine displeasure: Whoever voluntarily causes or attempts to cause any person to do anything which that person is not legally bound to do or to omit to do anything which he is legally entitled to do, by inducing or attempting to induce that person to believe that he or any person in whom he is interested will become or will be rendered by some act of the offender an object of Divine displeasure if he does not to the thing which it is the object of the offender to cause him to do, or if he does the thing which it is object of the offender to cause to him to omit shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to one year, or with fine, or with both.

Ahmed Khan | 13 years ago | Reply No wonder these imams don't have any respect in society other than reading prayers and nikaahs

Saeed | 13 years ago | Reply Why the hell has the government not arrested this man? Isn't there a law against inciting violence? Is this not hate speech? We really need to stop being concerned about how the world perceives us (backward and militant, and really who can blame them) and just throw such kind of irrepsonsible people in jail. Now.

Qudsia Noori | 13 years ago | Reply "The sentence against Asia Bibi has renewed debate about the law which critics say is used to persecute religious minorities, fan religious extremism and settle personal scores." --- Who are the critics? What critics say has been inserted, what the advocates say has not been. The writer seems to have tended through the report towards causing the report demonstrate a picture that Aasia is innocent, and to decide against her the punishment based on Islamic law for disgracing Holy Prophet(peace be upon him) is an unacceptable act; that she did by quoting statements too radical and rather draconian that go against her and the ones that go in her favor are appealingly sympathetic and seem to be positive. Tell both sides of the story as actually they appear, pretty please.

Karim | 13 years ago | Reply Poor Islam, a hostage to Mullahs!

Habiba Younis | 13 years ago | Reply He thinks he is buying a an entry pass to heaven abundant in beautiful hoors this way. Stupidity has no limit when it comes to clergy.

Kamal | 13 years ago | Reply Danish,It your birthright to worry about Asia Bibi and simply because somebody's name is PriyaSuraj he should not worry..Come on ..you are seeing the result of this approach..have some tolerance..what wrong Priya Suraj has said??

ahmed | 13 years ago | Reply this kind of people should be arrested and put on trial for enciting religious intolerance

A Durani | 13 years ago | Reply Pakistan: End is near

Cautious | 13 years ago | Reply Conspiracy to murder is considered a crime in the civilized world - guess that doesn't apply in Pakistan.

Tahera | 13 years ago | Reply Unless the government wants to encourage this trend, three actions to be initiated against this so-called religious leader: Arrest this fanatic cleric for inciting violence and encouraging vigilante (in)justice. Investigate his connections to extremists, to which he admits by threatening to seek their help. Confiscate the money he is offering as reward to be used to help the more deserving brave souls struggling to survive challenges of their daily existence int he Land of the Pure.

ismaeel | 13 years ago | Reply Shame on these religious jokers...

Owais Iqbal | 13 years ago | Reply It's not about Aasia, it's not about any religion particularly, it's about the remarks passed by someone respecting the core personality in Islam, the essential being: the Holy Prophet Muhammad(PBUH). Anything is acceptable but pushing the most sensitive nerve of ours.

Danish | 13 years ago | Reply @ Priya Suraj........you don't worry about Aasia Bibi.....please take care of Arundhati Roy, and give her justice.....!!! stop poking your nose in Pakistani Affairs!!!

SZ | 13 years ago | Reply Its only because of mullas like these that we have failed as a nation.

Sara Perriard Noor | 13 years ago | Reply Zero tolerance for anything against our Holy Prophet (peace be upon him).

sick of people | 13 years ago | Reply two questions if the mullah feels strongly about the court ruling why doesn't he murder her himself? where the hell did he get 50k?

Malik | 13 years ago | Reply Well Mulvi Sahib, you are totally wrong - Our Prophet was know for his mercy, his generosity and his love for menkind. According to Quran Prophets like Ibrahim and Hazart Muhammad (P:B:U:H) always prayed for welfare of human beings. Any kind hearted person can understand the depth of this particular case. Killing an human to show power is not a good human dead, Islam comes afterwards. Be human - and shut up with your stupidity - You Mullahs and Mulvis are the one who opposed creation of Pakistan and by grace of Allah Pakistan was created on 27th Ramzan. Your act than was neither islamic and your act now is also not islamic - Islam main jabar aur zulm ki koi jaghan nahi

PriyaSuraj | 13 years ago | Reply Really, I would love to see the lady pardoned and the Pakistani Govt repeal this act. I think the time has come for all "sane" Pakistanis to stand up against the real monsters.

Kamil Bangash | 13 years ago | Reply Let us see if the state puts him behind bars for inciting murder.

Rizwan T. | 13 years ago | Reply It's amazing how none of these clerics speak up when women are buried, people are cheated out of their pockets, people are killed in bomb blasts or when children are raped in their madrasas. This just goes on to show what a sad state this country has come down to. When people like these will be leading congregations in mosques, expect thousands of others to feel and behave the same way. This is not even Aasia Bibi anymore. It's about humans just doing what they have always been good at. Being irrational, murderous and evil. Reading such stories just hurts so much. If there is actually a God because of whom we have the blasphemy laws, I just hope He is watching and knocks some sense into these retards.

zaigham | 13 years ago | Reply he should be charged with intention to commit murder... if applicable, also apply the ruling from Surah Al-Maidah to spread mischief in the land... its such a sorry state...

Talha | 13 years ago | Reply This is a crime and this man should be dealt with by the secutiry forces. These people have to be dealt with a heavy hand. Only then will Pakistan progress.

Educated | 13 years ago | Reply Illiterate Mulla's have destroyed the true peace loving message of Islam.

Rehan | 13 years ago | Reply This is certainly a BIG BLOW to Pakistan. Maulana Yousuf Qureshi, is an imam but he seems to have lost all his senses... He is openly declaring to award someone who kills Aasia with a hefty sum, this is absolutely SICK! And we know even the govt. wud be unwilling to take proper actions against such people who just are very skillful in leveraging the islamic sentiments of the masses against a poor soul like Aasia whose only crime is to practise a different faith. Utter Shame for the Country!

Talat Haque | 13 years ago | Reply Look at the faces that go with the minds .......... so reflective !

muhammed | 13 years ago | Reply I am very wealthy business man Can I place a reward of equal amount to any pakistan police/lawyer to put Maulana Yousuf Qureshi in Jail till Aisa bibi is released ?

Hamza Malik | 13 years ago | Reply And so twists the sad tale of Aasia bibi. May God have mercy on her, and may God grant these barbaric hooligans the sense to use their brains.

shy | 13 years ago | Reply Zero tolerance for religious extremism.

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