Pakistani appeals court dismisses blasphemy case against Rimsha Masih
November 20, 2012
Pakistan’s High Court in Islamabad has dismissed blasphemy charges against Rimsha Masih, the mentally handicapped young Christian girl.
The court found that there was no firm evidence to back the charges against the 14-year-old girl. Defense lawyers had argued that the only available evidence had been planted by an Islamic cleric, who has already been found guilty of that offense.
Prosecutors have the right to appeal the court’s ruling, but have not yet indicated whether or not they intend to pursue an appeal. The dismissal of charges was greeted with cheers by human-rights activists, but denounced by Islamic militants who have called for the girl’s prosecution. Supporters of Rimsha Masih—who has been jailed since August—fear that she and her family will still be in danger of violent attacks.
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Further information:
- Pakistan Rimsha blasphemy case dropped (BBC)
- Court decision due for Rimsha Masih in Pakistani blasphemy trial (CWN, 11/14)
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