ISLAMABAD – The Supreme Court on Wednesday acquitted Asia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian who was facing a death sentence over blasphemy charges.
A three-judge special bench headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Mian Saqib Nisar and comprising Justice Asif Saeed Khosa and Justice Mazhar Alam Khan Miankhel announced the verdict on the final appeal filed by the convict.
Overturning her conviction, the bench ordered to immediately release the Christian woman, who was in jail for past eight years if there is no anymore case against her.
The judges remarked the prosecution had “categorically failed to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt”.
Here is the detailed verdict issued by the apex court.
The court had reserved its verdict over the appeal on Oct 8.
https://en.dailypakistan.com.pk/headline/sc-reserves-verdict-on-asia-bibis-final-appeal-against-death-sentence/
The allegations against Bibi date back to June 2009, when she was labouring in a field and a row broke out with some Muslim women who alleged that she committed blasphemy against Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him). A case was filed against her by a prayer leader in Katanwala village of Nankana Sahib.
Bibi was convicted of blasphemy and sentenced to death in 2010 by a trial court. She later moved the Lahore High Court against the execution sentence, however, the court had upheld the verdict.
Security Tightened
In Islamabad, Red Zone has been sealed due to security concerns. The road from Rawal Dam roundabout to Red Zone has also been blocked by placing containers.
In connection to the verdict, the Sindh government has also issued a notification of security high alert in the province to avert any violent situation.
Meanwhile, the security has also been beefed up in all areas with minority population, and places of worship.
Heavy contingent has also been deployed at the apex court and other courts.
Religious Parties To Hear Verdict
Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) and other religious parties have also arranged gatherings in different areas of Pakistan to hear the verdict of the Supreme Court.
https://en.dailypakistan.com.pk/pakistan/tlp-warns-of-countrywide-sit-ins-if-sc-acquits-asia-bibi-in-blasphemy-case/
On Oct 13, ehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) has threatened to hold protests paralysing the country if Asia Bibi, who was awarded death sentence for blasphemy, is acquitted by the Supreme Court.
