Pakistani Christian Diaspora Network USA Condemns Sentencing of Shagufta Kiran, Urges Action from Authorities

News Desk

Washington, D.C. September 30, 2024:

The Pakistani Christian Diaspora Network in the United States has expressed strong condemnation following the sentencing of Shagufta Kiran by a Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) court in Rawalpindi. Kiran, convicted under blasphemy laws, was sentenced to death after allegations arose from a WhatsApp discussion involving religious matters, states presser

The network has called the charges against Kiran “unfounded” and a violation of her basic human rights. They have demanded Kiran’s immediate release and have called for the government to take swift action to rectify the situation.

Kiran was accused under Section 295-C of the Pakistan Penal Code, which prescribes the death penalty for blasphemy. The network in a presser, alleges that the charges were based on personal religious discourse within a WhatsApp group and claims that no credible evidence has been presented to support the conviction. They also criticize the legal process, arguing that Kiran’s sentencing occurred without proper due process, thereby undermining obligations under international human rights law.

While the Pakistani Christian Diaspora Network USA emphasized their opposition to any form of religious insult, they stressed the need for reforms to blasphemy laws, which they argue are frequently abused to target religious minorities. They have called for greater judicial oversight in blasphemy cases, suggesting that blasphemy-related charges should require clear evidence before they can be filed, and have urged that such offenses be made bailable.

The network also raised concerns for Kiran’s safety, as well as that of her family, who now face potential threats of mob violence. This is in light of previous cases where blasphemy accusations have led to vigilante actions against those accused.

The Pakistani Christian Diaspora Network in a presser has called on the Pakistani government to uphold the rule of law and to take measures to prevent further abuse of the blasphemy laws. They also emphasized the need for public education campaigns to raise awareness of the consequences of misusing these laws.