ASIA/PAKISTAN - Christian couple burned alive for blasphemy: impunity of perpetrators

Friday, 6 May 2016 blasphemy   islam   violence  

Lead

Lahore (Agenzia Fides) – The trial regarding the culprits of the lynching of a Christian couple Shahzad Masih and Shama Bibi, burned alive for alleged blasphemy on November 4, 2014 appears to be complicated.
In yesterday’s hearing, May 5, before the anti-terrorism Court in Lahore, which judges the case, a "cross-examination" of the witnesses began, which will continue in the next hearing on May 9.
"Witnesses and lawyers are threatened" says to Fides one of the lawyers in the courtroom, Christian Sardar Mushtaq Gill, who represents the family of the victims.
"There are many concerns about the possible impunity for the perpetrators" confirms to Fides attorney Aneeqa Maria Anthony, coordinator of the organization "The Voice Society", which also provides legal protection to the victims.
"The witnesses have refused to recognize the main accused in the case, who has been released on bail. There are 106 detainees accused of this lynching and if the trial continues in this direction, it seems that everyone will be freed", he concludes. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 06/05/2016)


Share: