A local court in Pakistan has acquitted a Christian man accused under blasphemy laws after ruling that the prosecution failed to prove its case and that the evidence had collapsed beyond repair.
The magistrate dismissed charges against Shahzad, a Christian paint contractor, who had been accused of insulting religious sentiments through a social media post. The court found that even the prosecution’s own questioning of its key witness did not support the allegations.
The charges were filed under Sections 295-A and 298 of the blasphemy laws, which relate to deliberate acts intended to offend religious beliefs and carry prison terms and fines. The court ruled that these sections did not apply in this case.
In its observations, the court noted that the Bible is respected by Muslims and that the Quran itself discourages believers from passing judgement on those who follow the Gospel. Based on these findings, Shahzad was formally acquitted.
Maria, a legal advocate involved in the case, said the verdict exposed serious weaknesses in the justice process. She said a single accusation can destroy lives, forcing families into fear, displacement and uncertainty, even when no wrongdoing is proven.
She welcomed the court’s decision but raised concern for others who face similar charges without clear evidence. She said many accused people continue to suffer lengthy legal battles that damage their dignity and livelihoods.
The case began in June 2023 when Shahzad shared a Bible verse from 1 Corinthians on his Facebook page. The post appeared days before the Muslim festival of Eid al-Adha, which includes the ritual sacrifice of animals.
A local Muslim resident shared a screenshot of the post in community groups and accused Shahzad of mocking Islamic practices. Shahzad did not add any personal comment to the verse.
Tensions rose after announcements from mosque loudspeakers called villagers to gather for protests. Fearing violence, many Christian families fled their homes, leaving behind their belongings.
Shahzad later said the accusation was driven by a personal dispute. He claimed the complainant had opposed the allocation of government land for the construction of a church and had lost multiple legal challenges over several years.
Shahzad said he never intended to offend anyone and deleted the post once he realised it was being misused. He said he planned to meet community elders to explain his position, but events escalated rapidly.
The acquittal brings relief to Shahzad and his family, but Christian leaders say the case highlights ongoing risks faced by minorities under blasphemy laws, where accusations alone can trigger mob pressure, displacement and prolonged legal hardship.
Christians form a small minority in the country, which ranks among the most difficult places in the world for followers of Christ, according to international monitoring groups.
Adapted from Morning Star News.
