Some Muslim leaders call for leniency for Christian girl accused of blasphemy

August 31, 2012

Several Muslim leaders in Pakistan are calling for leniency for Rimsha Masih, a medically handicapped Christian girl who has been imprisoned on blasphemy charges.

“In order to prove the charges against a minor, Islam prescribes a different procedure than that required for a mature person,” said Pir Shafaat Rasool, head of an Islamic madrasah (school) in Lahore. “Instead of inflicting punishment, Islam should teach and guide a child with love and sympathy, if he [or] she commits an error. Therefore, in my opinion, Rimsha must be released immediately.”

 

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Further information:

• Muslim leaders: "Rimsha must be released, the sharia says it" (Fides)
• Islamic lawyers press for blasphemy trial for handicapped Pakistani girl (CWN, 8/30)