In Pakistan, recent court rulings have seen the acquittal of members from minority communities facing blasphemy charges due to insufficient evidence. In Faisalabad, an anti-terrorism court acquitted two Christian brothers, Umar Saleem (known as Rocky) and Umair Saleem (known as Raja), accused of blasphemy following the Jaranwala riots in August 2023. The riots occurred after an alleged desecration of the Holy Quran, resulting in the ransacking of churches and attacks on Christian residences.
ATC judge Muhammad Hussain ordered their acquittal, stating there was no evidence against them. They faced charges under sections 295-A, 295-B, and 295-C of the Pakistan Penal Code, as well as Section 9 of the Anti-Terrorism Act.
Similarly, the Sindh High Court’s Sukkur bench acquitted a Hindu professor of blasphemy charges, citing insufficient evidence and flaws in the police investigation. The professor, accused by a student of using inappropriate language regarding Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) in 2019, had apologized, but the incident led to violence and his sentencing to life in prison. The court highlighted police negligence, noting the rushed investigation and lack of concrete evidence. It questioned the FIR registration process and criticized the police for not clarifying the alleged insulting words. The court emphasized the importance of thorough investigations in sensitive cases to prevent societal unrest.
Despite the acquittals, the affected families continue to face challenges. The Christian brothers and the Hindu professor’s family have endured hardship, including financial struggles and threats. The court decisions provide relief, yet uncertainties persist regarding the release of the Hindu professor and the well-being of the affected families.
