Division Bench Halts Implementation Following Intra-Court Appeal
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has suspended the implementation of an earlier directive that called for the formation of a commission to investigate blasphemy-related cases. The suspension came after a division bench, consisting of Justice Khadim Hussain and Justice Azam Khan, heard an intra-court appeal filed by Advocate Rao Abdul Rahim, who challenged the original decision.
This development halts the ruling issued last week by Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan, who had ordered the federal government to establish a commission within 30 days. The proposed commission was tasked with reviewing the application and handling of Pakistan’s blasphemy laws and was expected to complete its work within four months. Justice Ejaz’s order also allowed for the possibility of an extension if required.
Concerns Over Misuse of Blasphemy Laws Remain Unaddressed
The now-suspended order had been seen by many as a significant step toward addressing growing concerns over the misuse of blasphemy laws in Pakistan. A 2023 report by the National Commission for Human Rights revealed that at least 767 individuals—mostly young men—are currently imprisoned while awaiting trial for blasphemy-related charges. These statistics have fueled calls for greater oversight and accountability in how such cases are handled.
Lawyer and activist Imaan Mazari had previously welcomed Justice Ejaz’s order, calling it “a huge ray of hope” for the families affected. “It’s the first time that the families have felt heard,” she remarked at the time.
The suspension has sparked mixed reactions among legal experts and human rights advocates. While some argue that proper legal procedure must be followed before implementing such a sweeping directive, others see the delay as a setback to justice and an indication of institutional reluctance to confront the misuse of blasphemy laws head-on. The case is now likely to undergo further legal scrutiny in the coming weeks.
