Blasphemy is a never ending issue in Pakistan. A new report revealed that a group of lawyers are the real reasons why there's an increase of blasphemy executions in the nation.
In Pakistan, blasphemy is a crime that would mean death penalty. As Reuters reports, hundreds of lawyers belonging to Khatm-e-Nubuwwat Lawyers' Forum were allegedly to be blamed for the growing number of blasphemy cases in the country. The group headed by leader Ghulam Mustafa Chaudhry provides free legal advice to people who were involved in blasphemy cases. The group was reportedly formed to increase the number of executions as they represent the complainants in court.
"Whoever does this (blasphemy), the punishment is only death. There is no alternative," Chaudhry said.
According to A Times, Khatm-e-Nubuwwat Lawyers' Forum that translates to Movement for the Finality of the Prophethood has the mission to use its expertise and influence that anyone insulting Prophet Mohammad or the Islam would be charged, tried and executed. Latest news claimed that the group would reportedly make it harder for the government to alter the blasphemy law in the country. Blasphemy is a sensitive issue in Pakistan and has been supported strongly by many.
Chaudhry was Mumtaz Qadri's defense lawyer. Qadri was the Pakistan executed for murdering Salam Taseer, a well-known governor in Punjab. Chaudry defended Qadri for killing Taseer, who was a strong critic of the blasphemy law. However, the high court ruled that Qadri was punishable for killing the popular Punjab politician. At the time of his death, Qadri was considered a hero by his supporters.
"He lives! Qadri lives!" Qadri's supporters shouted during his funeral last week. "From your blood, the revolution will come!"
Blasphemy is a serious subject that is troubling the Pakistan government. Critics and activists are firmly opposing revision of the blasphemy law. However, with Qadri's execution, it showed that the government is pursuing its effort to change the law.
