A Christian man in Pakistan, Ishtiaq Saleem, is facing a potential death sentence under the country’s controversial blasphemy laws. Saleem, a 34-year-old sanitation worker, was arrested in November 2022 on accusations of sharing blasphemous content on social media, which he denies. If convicted, Saleem could be sentenced to death, highlighting the challenges faced by religious minorities in Pakistan.
The case has garnered attention due to its connection to the “blasphemy business group,” an organized network accused of falsely accusing individuals of blasphemy for blackmail and extortion purposes. Saleem’s co-accused, Muhammad Umair, is also part of the ongoing court proceedings, with a verdict expected once hearings are complete. The Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) International has been advocating for Saleem’s release, emphasizing the need to abolish blasphemy laws that perpetuate violence and discrimination.
Despite spending three years behind bars and facing rejection of bail applications by lower and Supreme Courts, Saleem continues to await justice. The Supreme Court’s directive to expedite the trial proceedings underscores the significance of this case, which is being heard before a special court in Islamabad. The involvement of the “Blasphemy Business Group” in fabricating blasphemy charges has raised concerns about the fairness of the legal process, with over 450 individuals reportedly targeted through similar schemes in Pakistan.
The organized network, which allegedly includes lawyers and individuals collaborating with the cybercrime unit of the Federal Investigation Agency, has been instrumental in bringing forth these cases. The lead prosecution counsel, Rao Abdur Rahim, who heads the group, has further fueled apprehensions regarding the impartiality of the proceedings. ADF International continues to advocate for Saleem’s release and calls for a culture in Pakistan that upholds religious freedom for all.
