Blasphemy Arrest Leaves Faithful Hiding In Fear
The recent arrest of Zafar Iqbal Masih, a mentally disabled Christian waste collector in Lahore, has brought renewed attention to Pakistan’s controversial blasphemy laws, which disproportionately impact vulnerable groups such as religious minorities, the poor, and people with disabilities. Masih was detained on November 2 after being accused of burning pages of the Quran, sparking mob violence. This case exemplifies the ongoing pattern of blasphemy accusations targeting marginalized communities.
Masih, who suffers from an undisclosed mental disability, was performing his usual task of sorting recyclables when a neighbor accused him of burning religious texts. His wife, Rubina, explained that this led to an angry mob attacking Masih. She emphasized that due to his mental illness and illiteracy, Masih could not have intentionally committed a blasphemous act. The incident quickly escalated, highlighting the dangerous intersection of religious sensitivities and social vulnerability.
Similar cases have occurred in Pakistan, where blasphemy laws are often used against those least able to defend themselves. For instance, in June 2024, a mentally disabled woman named Jamila Jacob was imprisoned instead of receiving medical care after being accused of blasphemy. Additionally, in 2012, Rimsha Masih, a girl with intellectual disabilities, faced blasphemy charges before her case was eventually dismissed.
Christian journalist Saleem Iqbal reported that the recent incident has increased tensions, forcing local Christians into hiding. Critics argue that Pakistan’s blasphemy laws are frequently misused to settle personal vendettas or target minority groups, with the poor and disabled being particularly susceptible to false accusations. Masih’s lawyer, Dr. Sharjeel Zafar, highlighted the discriminatory nature of these laws and noted that requests for Masih’s hospital treatment have been ignored.
The case has sparked renewed calls for reforming Pakistan’s blasphemy laws. Human rights organizations argue that these laws create a perilous environment for the most vulnerable populations, particularly those who face multiple layers of marginalization due to poverty, disability, and religious minority status.