Pakistan: Christian accused of blasphemy released
By Joseph DeCaro
(Worthy News) - Although charges are still pending, a court in Pakistan has recently ordered the release of a Christian laborer falsely accused of blasphemy.
According to UCA News, Pervaiz Masih was arrested in the city of Kasur last month after he was accused of making derogatory remarks against Islam's prophet by his Muslim employer.
Masih's brother-in-law told UCA that the blasphemy accusation was lodged right after Pervaiz had demanded his wages. But this is not unusual in Pakistan where blasphemy laws are often used to settle personal matters between Muslims and non-Muslim minorities.
Maish was booked under Section 295C of the Pakistan Penal Code, which prohibits any derogatory comments against Islam's prophet. If convicted, the charge carries the death penalty.
The next hearing is scheduled for Oct. 20 when Masih's lawyers will argue for an acquittal of their client.