Pakistan: Mass Rallies to Keep the Death Penalty for Blasphemy

A death sentence for blaspheming Mohammed was recently handed down in Pakistan against a Christian woman, Asia Bibi. This barbaric act has drawn condemnation from all over the world, drawing unwelcome attention to Islamic law in action.

The Pakistani government says it has no plans to change the blasphemy law, but the citizens of Pakistan are not taking any chances: they filled the streets today to protest any possible relaxation of the penalties for blasphemy.

Here’s a report from the BBC:

Pakistan on Strike Against Bill to Amend Blasphemy Law

A 24-hour strike organised by Sunni Muslim clerics has taken place across Pakistan to protest against possible changes to blasphemy laws.

Rallies were staged in Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar and Quetta after Friday prayers.

The government has distanced itself from a bill to soften the law, which currently carries a mandatory death sentence for anyone who insults Islam.

Human rights groups say the law is often used to persecute religious minorities.

Aleem Maqbool reports from Islamabad.

The video accompanying the article is below the jump. Many thanks to Vlad Tepes for YouTubing it:


Hat tip: DF.