Pakistani Christian sentenced to death on blasphemy charges

March 31, 2014

Sawan Masih, a Pakistani Christian, has been sentenced to death by hanging on charges of insulting Muhammad, the founder of Islam.

Following Masih’s arrest last year, a mob of 3,000 destroyed 150 homes and two churches in an anti-Christian rampage in Lahore. AsiaNews reported that the judge who sentenced Masih to death also released on bail 83 persons accused of taking part in the rampage.

“It is sad to see a death sentence imposed on patently false charges,” said Bishop Rufin Anthony of Islamabad- Rawalpindi. “Next week we shall hold a day of prayer for the persecuted.”

 

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Further information:

• Christian sentenced to death for blasphemy, Islamabad bishop calls for prayers for the persecuted (AsiaNews)
• Pakistan: hundreds accused of taking part in anti-Christian rampage released (CWN, 6/7/13)