Christian Advocates Urge Pakistan Probe Into Blasphemy Cases, Greater Protection For Minorities

by Stefan J. Bos, Worthy News Chief International Correspondent

ISLAMABAD (Worthy News) – Christian advocates urged Pakistan’s government on Saturday to establish an independent commission to investigate what they describe as the “Blasphemy Business Group” following the death in custody of a Christian facing controversial blasphemy charges.

Campaigners expressed concern about the reported misuse of blasphemy laws in the Islamic nation, including allegations of entrapment, abuse of legal procedures, and the coordinated targeting of vulnerable individuals.

Separate allegations circulating on social media have also linked the so-called “Blasphemy Business Group” to organized entrapment and other criminal activity.

Pastor Imran Amanat, head of the Christian advocacy group LEAD Ministries, called for a transparent, judicially supervised inquiry, saying it would help establish the facts, ensure accountability where wrongdoing is proven, and strengthen protections for religious minorities, especially Christians.

The renewed appeal followed the July 1 death in custody of Amir Peter, a Christian awaiting trial on blasphemy charges, prompting fresh calls for an independent investigation.

CALLS FOR INQUIRY

As of Saturday, Pakistani authorities had not publicly responded to the latest calls for such an inquiry.

Christian leaders say the controversy underscores broader concerns about rising religious polarization and the vulnerability of the country’s Christian minority.

Pastor Amanat told Worthy News that poor Christian families, especially in rural areas, often bear the consequences of religious disputes in which they play no role.

Referring to reports from parts of Punjab Province, Amanat said some Christian families had allegedly faced harassment and fled their homes. While welcoming local officials’ efforts to improve security, he urged authorities to do more to protect vulnerable communities by enforcing hate-speech laws and promoting responsible public discourse.

PEACEFUL DIALOGUE

Amanat also appealed to Muslim and Christian religious leaders to reject inflammatory language and promote respectful dialogue, saying innocent citizens should never be punished for the actions or statements of others.

He stressed that those responsible for unlawful acts should be held individually accountable and that innocent Christians must not face intimidation, discrimination, or violence because of religious controversies.

Pakistan ranks eighth on the 2026 World Watch List compiled by Open Doors, which monitors persecution of Christians worldwide.

Rights advocates say blasphemy allegations in the Islamic nation have repeatedly triggered mob violence, lengthy imprisonment, and fear among religious minorities, often before courts determine guilt or innocence.

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