<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-military-attache-to-us-urges-army-to-back-maduro-opponent-193034">Venezuela military attache to </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-military-attache-to-us-urges-army-to-back-maduro-opponent-193034">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-military-attache-to-us-urges-army-to-back-maduro-opponent-193034"> urges </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-military-attache-to-us-urges-army-to-back-maduro-opponent-193034">army</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-military-attache-to-us-urges-army-to-back-maduro-opponent-193034"> to back Maduro opponent</a>

Venezuela's military attache to Washington broke ranks with Nicolas Maduro on Saturday, urging his "brothers in the military" to back the head of the National Assembly Juan Guaido as interim president, he told AFP.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-says-church-hasnt-known-how-to-listen-193036">On sex abuse scandals, Pope says Catholic Church 'wounded by sin'</a>

Pope Francis acknowledged Saturday that the Catholic Church was "wounded by sin" in a message addressed to priests and seminarians reeling from sexual abuse scandals and coverups.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-asia-bibis-lawyer-returns-to-pakistan-to-aid-in-appeal-193043">Asia Bibi's lawyer returns to Pakistan to 'hopefully assist client for last time'</a>

The Pakistani lawyer of a Christian woman acquitted of blasphemy jetted out of the Netherlands Saturday to "hopefully assist his client for the last time" in a Pakistani court hearing, a Dutch MP said.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-to-address-nation-in-first-mann-ki-baat-of-2019-193050">PM Narendra Modi to address </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-to-address-nation-in-first-mann-ki-baat-of-2019-193050">nation</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-to-address-nation-in-first-mann-ki-baat-of-2019-193050"> in first 'Mann Ki Baat' of 2019</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to address the nation in the 52nd episode of his “Mann Ki Baat” radio programme on Sunday.&nbsp;

The radio podcast, his first of 2019, will be broadcast&nbsp;on All India Radio (AIR) and Doordarshan at 11 am.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/banksy-artwork-stolen-from-bataclan-music-hall-in-paris-193052">Banksy artwork </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/banksy-artwork-stolen-from-bataclan-music-hall-in-paris-193052">stolen</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/banksy-artwork-stolen-from-bataclan-music-hall-in-paris-193052"> from Bataclan music hall in Paris</a>

An artwork by the British artist Banksy has been stolen from the Bataclan music hall in Paris.&nbsp;

The mural — which depicted a young girl with a mournful expression — had been painted onto one of the Bataclan's emergency doors. It was cut out.&nbsp;

Venezuela military attache to US urges army to back Maduro opponent Venezuela's military attache to Washington broke ranks with Nicolas Maduro on Saturday, urging his "brothers in the military" to back the head of the National Assembly Juan Guaido as interim president, he told AFP.

Venezuela military attache to US urges army to back Maduro opponent Venezuela's military attache to Washington broke ranks with Nicolas Maduro on Saturday, urging his "brothers in the military" to back the head of the National Assembly Juan Guaido as interim president, he told AFP. On sex abuse scandals, Pope says Catholic Church 'wounded by sin' Pope Francis acknowledged Saturday that the Catholic Church was "wounded by sin" in a message addressed to priests and seminarians reeling from sexual abuse scandals and coverups. Asia Bibi's lawyer returns to Pakistan to 'hopefully assist client for last time' The Pakistani lawyer of a Christian woman acquitted of blasphemy jetted out of the Netherlands Saturday to "hopefully assist his client for the last time" in a Pakistani court hearing, a Dutch MP said. PM Narendra Modi to address nation in first 'Mann Ki Baat' of 2019 Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to address the nation in the 52nd episode of his “Mann Ki Baat” radio programme on Sunday. The radio podcast, his first of 2019, will be broadcast on All India Radio (AIR) and Doordarshan at 11 am. Banksy artwork stolen from Bataclan music hall in Paris An artwork by the British artist Banksy has been stolen from the Bataclan music hall in Paris. The mural — which depicted a young girl with a mournful expression — had been painted onto one of the Bataclan's emergency doors. It was cut out.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The Pakistani lawyer of a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asia-bibis-daughters-get-refuge-in-canada-ahead-of-blasphemy-case-hearing-193000">Christian woman acquitted of blasphemy</a>&nbsp;jetted out of the Netherlands Saturday to "hopefully assist his client for the last time" in a Pakistani court hearing, a Dutch MP said.&nbsp;

Saif-ul-Malook fled to the Netherlands from Pakistan in November last year after violent protests erupted over the Pakistani Supreme Court's decision to overturn the conviction of Asia Bibi, who was on death row.

Pakistan's Supreme Court will decide on Tuesday whether to allow an appeal against Bibi's acquittal, lawyers in the case have said.

Christian Union party parliamentarian Joel Voordewind tweeted a picture of himself and Malook saying "this afternoon (Saturday) I escorted Asia Bibi's lawyer, Mr Malook to Schiphol airport."

"He's going back to Pakistan to hopefully represent Asia for the last time in her case," Voordewind said.

The Netherlands last year granted Malook a temporary stay, but Voordewind said Malook will "unfortunately lose his asylum status in the Netherlands."

The allegations against Bibi date back to 2009, when Muslim women accused her of blasphemy against the Prophet Mohammed, a charge punishable by death under the colonial-era legislation.

Her case drew the attention of international rights groups and swiftly became the most high-profile in the country.

If the court refuses to allow the appeal, it will remove the last legal hurdle facing Bibi, who is a prime target in conservative Muslim-majority Pakistan and remains in protective custody.

Bibi was on death row for eight years for blasphemy, a hugely sensitive charge.

Ambassador threatened

Meanwhile, the Dutch ambassador to Pakistan is to return to Islamabad next month after receiving a death threat last year, reportedly from Islamists angry over anti-Islam tweets by far-right politician Geert Wilders, Dutch media reported earlier Saturday.

Ardi Stoios-Braken "will fly back to Islamabad in early February," the daily tabloid Algemeen Dagblad said.

She was on leave in the Netherlands in late October last year when she received word "that a letter arrived at the embassy from Pakistani authorities."

"The letter spoke of a 'specific threat' and was related to the Mohammed cartoon contest which had already been cancelled months before," the paper said.

Dutch Foreign Minister Stef Blok said in November that Stoios-Braken, a veteran diplomat, faced "threats" in Pakistan, apparently over "blasphemous depictions" by Wilders on Twitter.

Wilders in August called off a planned Prophet Mohammed cartoon competition that stirred anger in Pakistan.

Pakistan's interior ministry in October wrote a secret memo on plans to "target" the Dutch ambassador by the hardline Islamist Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan party (TLP), media from both countries reported at the time.

The TLP, founded in 2015, led protests in August calling for Pakistan to sever diplomatic relations with the Netherlands over the Wilders cartoon contest.

The TLP has denied making any threats.

The Pakistani government, however, has since launched a crackdown on the TLP, charging its leaders with sedition and terrorism.

But authorities also struck a deal with the protesters to end the violence, forming an agreement which included allowing a final review of the Supreme Court's judgement.

The Pakistani lawyer of a Christian woman acquitted of blasphemy jetted out of the Netherlands Saturday to "hopefully assist his client for the last time" in a Pakistani court hearing, a Dutch MP said.

The Pakistani lawyer of a Christian woman acquitted of blasphemy jetted out of the Netherlands Saturday to "hopefully assist his client for the last time" in a Pakistani court hearing, a Dutch MP said. Saif-ul-Malook fled to the Netherlands from Pakistan in November last year after violent protests erupted over the Pakistani Supreme Court's decision to overturn the conviction of Asia Bibi, who was on death row. Pakistan's Supreme Court will decide on Tuesday whether to allow an appeal against Bibi's acquittal, lawyers in the case have said. Christian Union party parliamentarian Joel Voordewind tweeted a picture of himself and Malook saying "this afternoon (Saturday) I escorted Asia Bibi's lawyer, Mr Malook to Schiphol airport." "He's going back to Pakistan to hopefully represent Asia for the last time in her case," Voordewind said. The Netherlands last year granted Malook a temporary stay, but Voordewind said Malook will "unfortunately lose his asylum status in the Netherlands." The allegations against Bibi date back to 2009, when Muslim women accused her of blasphemy against the Prophet Mohammed, a charge punishable by death under the colonial-era legislation. Her case drew the attention of international rights groups and swiftly became the most high-profile in the country. If the court refuses to allow the appeal, it will remove the last legal hurdle facing Bibi, who is a prime target in conservative Muslim-majority Pakistan and remains in protective custody. Bibi was on death row for eight years for blasphemy, a hugely sensitive charge. Ambassador threatened Meanwhile, the Dutch ambassador to Pakistan is to return to Islamabad next month after receiving a death threat last year, reportedly from Islamists angry over anti-Islam tweets by far-right politician Geert Wilders, Dutch media reported earlier Saturday. Ardi Stoios-Braken "will fly back to Islamabad in early February," the daily tabloid Algemeen Dagblad said. She was on leave in the Netherlands in late October last year when she received word "that a letter arrived at the embassy from Pakistani authorities." "The letter spoke of a 'specific threat' and was related to the Mohammed cartoon contest which had already been cancelled months before," the paper said. Dutch Foreign Minister Stef Blok said in November that Stoios-Braken, a veteran diplomat, faced "threats" in Pakistan, apparently over "blasphemous depictions" by Wilders on Twitter. Wilders in August called off a planned Prophet Mohammed cartoon competition that stirred anger in Pakistan. Pakistan's interior ministry in October wrote a secret memo on plans to "target" the Dutch ambassador by the hardline Islamist Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan party (TLP), media from both countries reported at the time. The TLP, founded in 2015, led protests in August calling for Pakistan to sever diplomatic relations with the Netherlands over the Wilders cartoon contest. The TLP has denied making any threats. The Pakistani government, however, has since launched a crackdown on the TLP, charging its leaders with sedition and terrorism. But authorities also struck a deal with the protesters to end the violence, forming an agreement which included allowing a final review of the Supreme Court's judgement.

Asia Bibi's lawyer returns to Pakistan to 'hopefully assist client for last time'

The daughters of Asia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian woman acquitted of blasphemy charges, have been taken to Canada for safety reasons ahead of a court hearing next week that could see their mother finally freed.

The mother-of-five was acquitted last October after spending eight years on death row for blasphemy.

Asia Bibi is expected to join her daughters in Canada if Pakistan's Supreme Court upholds its decision to quash her conviction for defaming the Prophet Mohammed during a row with fellow workers, the Telegraph reported.

Two daughters of the 54-year-old Catholic farmhand last month flew to Canada with their guardian and diplomatic sources told the Telegraph and the country is a leading contender to take her if freed.

Pakistan's apex court quashed her 2010 conviction and death sentence in October, in a case that had drawn worldwide outcry from Church groups. But after days of protests by hardline Islamist clerics, Prime Minister Imran Khan agreed to allow a petition against the decision.

The petition will now be heard on January 29 by a panel including the country's top judge. The court is widely expected to uphold its original decision, which demolished her conviction and was scathing of the prosecution case.

Asia Bibi, her husband and family have decided they will be unable to live safely in Pakistan if she is freed, with religious parties and her own villagers still calling for her to hang.

Hardline Islamists had been knocking on doors in the neighbourhood where her husband and daughters live, raising fears that they could be killed before she has a chance to leave Pakistan.

Meanwhile, Asia Bibi’s lawyer Saiful Malook, who left for the Netherlands last year due to “security concerns”, has decided to return to Pakistan.

Talking to The Express Tribune, Malook said he would return to attend the January 29 Supreme Court hearing on the review petition against Asia’s acquittal of blasphemy charges.

He, however, requested Prime Minister Imran Khan to ensure his security in Islamabad.&nbsp;

The daughters of Asia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian woman acquitted of blasphemy charges, have been taken to Canada for safety reasons ahead of a court hearing next week that could see their mother finally freed.

The daughters of Asia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian woman acquitted of blasphemy charges, have been taken to Canada for safety reasons ahead of a court hearing next week that could see their mother finally freed. The mother-of-five was acquitted last October after spending eight years on death row for blasphemy. Asia Bibi is expected to join her daughters in Canada if Pakistan's Supreme Court upholds its decision to quash her conviction for defaming the Prophet Mohammed during a row with fellow workers, the Telegraph reported. Two daughters of the 54-year-old Catholic farmhand last month flew to Canada with their guardian and diplomatic sources told the Telegraph and the country is a leading contender to take her if freed. Pakistan's apex court quashed her 2010 conviction and death sentence in October, in a case that had drawn worldwide outcry from Church groups. But after days of protests by hardline Islamist clerics, Prime Minister Imran Khan agreed to allow a petition against the decision. The petition will now be heard on January 29 by a panel including the country's top judge. The court is widely expected to uphold its original decision, which demolished her conviction and was scathing of the prosecution case. Asia Bibi, her husband and family have decided they will be unable to live safely in Pakistan if she is freed, with religious parties and her own villagers still calling for her to hang. Hardline Islamists had been knocking on doors in the neighbourhood where her husband and daughters live, raising fears that they could be killed before she has a chance to leave Pakistan. Meanwhile, Asia Bibi’s lawyer Saiful Malook, who left for the Netherlands last year due to “security concerns”, has decided to return to Pakistan. Talking to The Express Tribune, Malook said he would return to attend the January 29 Supreme Court hearing on the review petition against Asia’s acquittal of blasphemy charges. He, however, requested Prime Minister Imran Khan to ensure his security in Islamabad.

Asia Bibi's daughters get refuge in Canada ahead of blasphemy case hearing

Pakistan's Supreme Court will decide on January 29 whether to allow an appeal against its acquittal of a Christian woman at the centre of a blasphemy row, a lawyer involved in the case said Thursday.

If the court refuses to allow the appeal, it will remove the last legal hurdle facing Asia Bibi, who is a prime target in conservative Muslim-majority Pakistan and remains in protective custody.

Bibi was on death row for eight years for blasphemy, a hugely sensitive charge.

The Supreme Court's decision in October last year to overturn her conviction ignited days of violent demonstrations, with enraged Islamists calling for her beheading, mutiny within the powerful military and the assassination of the country's top judges.

The government has since launched a crackdown on the Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan (TLP) party -- the Islamist group driving the violent protests -- charging its leaders with sedition and terrorism.

But authorities also struck a deal with the protesters to end the violence, forming an agreement which included allowing a final review of the Supreme Court's judgement.

On January 29, "the court will determine if our appeal against her acquittal is admitted", Ghulam Mustafa Chaudhry, the lawyer who filed the petition seeking an appeal, told AFP.

"Usually the court decides on the same day if the appeal is admitted or not," he added.

Under Pakistan's creaky legal system any private citizen can petition the courts on any matter of public interest or human rights, as in the Bibi case.

However legal experts said it would be highly unusual for the Supreme Court to overturn its own decision, especially one that as carefully drafted as the Bibi ruling.

"It is very rare," lawyer Saad Rasool told AFP.&nbsp;

The three-member bench that will hear the petition will be headed by new Chief Justice Asif Saeed Khosa, considered the country's top expert in criminal law and who helped draft the decision to acquit Bibi.

Blasphemy continues to be a massively inflammatory issue in Pakistan, where even unproven accusations of insulting Islam can spark lynchings.&nbsp;

Approximately 40 people are believed to be on death row or serving a life sentence for blasphemy, according to a 2018 report by the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom.

Many cases see Muslims accusing Muslims. But rights activists have warned that minorities -- particularly Christians -- are often caught in the crossfire, with blasphemy charges used to settle personal scores.

Speculation has been rife since Bibi's acquittal that an asylum deal with a European or North American country may be in the works.

The allegations against her date back to 2009, when Muslim women accused her of blasphemy against the Prophet Mohammed, a charge punishable by death under the colonial-era legislation.

Her case drew the attention of international rights groups and swiftly became the most high-profile in the country.

Pope Benedict XVI called for her release in 2010, while in 2015 her daughter met his successor and the current head of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis.

Pakistan's Supreme Court will decide on January 29 whether to allow an appeal against its acquittal of a Christian woman at the centre of a blasphemy row, a lawyer involved in the case said Thursday.

Pakistan's Supreme Court will decide on January 29 whether to allow an appeal against its acquittal of a Christian woman at the centre of a blasphemy row, a lawyer involved in the case said Thursday. If the court refuses to allow the appeal, it will remove the last legal hurdle facing Asia Bibi, who is a prime target in conservative Muslim-majority Pakistan and remains in protective custody. Bibi was on death row for eight years for blasphemy, a hugely sensitive charge. The Supreme Court's decision in October last year to overturn her conviction ignited days of violent demonstrations, with enraged Islamists calling for her beheading, mutiny within the powerful military and the assassination of the country's top judges. The government has since launched a crackdown on the Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan (TLP) party -- the Islamist group driving the violent protests -- charging its leaders with sedition and terrorism. But authorities also struck a deal with the protesters to end the violence, forming an agreement which included allowing a final review of the Supreme Court's judgement. On January 29, "the court will determine if our appeal against her acquittal is admitted", Ghulam Mustafa Chaudhry, the lawyer who filed the petition seeking an appeal, told AFP. "Usually the court decides on the same day if the appeal is admitted or not," he added. Under Pakistan's creaky legal system any private citizen can petition the courts on any matter of public interest or human rights, as in the Bibi case. However legal experts said it would be highly unusual for the Supreme Court to overturn its own decision, especially one that as carefully drafted as the Bibi ruling. "It is very rare," lawyer Saad Rasool told AFP. The three-member bench that will hear the petition will be headed by new Chief Justice Asif Saeed Khosa, considered the country's top expert in criminal law and who helped draft the decision to acquit Bibi. Blasphemy continues to be a massively inflammatory issue in Pakistan, where even unproven accusations of insulting Islam can spark lynchings. Approximately 40 people are believed to be on death row or serving a life sentence for blasphemy, according to a 2018 report by the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom. Many cases see Muslims accusing Muslims. But rights activists have warned that minorities -- particularly Christians -- are often caught in the crossfire, with blasphemy charges used to settle personal scores. Speculation has been rife since Bibi's acquittal that an asylum deal with a European or North American country may be in the works. The allegations against her date back to 2009, when Muslim women accused her of blasphemy against the Prophet Mohammed, a charge punishable by death under the colonial-era legislation. Her case drew the attention of international rights groups and swiftly became the most high-profile in the country. Pope Benedict XVI called for her release in 2010, while in 2015 her daughter met his successor and the current head of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis.

Pakistan's Supreme Court to decide on Asia Bibi appeal January 29: Lawyer

Pakistan's Supreme Court has directed the federal and provincial governments to compensate within a month all those who suffered losses during the violent protests by radical Islamist parties following the acquittal of Christian woman Asia Bibi in a blasphemy case.

The apex court in October overturned the conviction of the 47-year-old mother of four, who was on death row for eight years for blasphemy, in a landmark verdict that sparked nationwide protests, death threats from hardline groups and cheers from human rights advocates.

A two-judge bench headed by Pakistan's Chief Justice Saqib Nisar issued the order on Saturday while hearing a suo motu case at the apex court's Lahore Registry regarding losses and damages to property during the three-day long nationwide sit-ins staged by religious parties led by the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), the Express Tribune newspaper reported.

As the proceedings started, a government official submitted a report pertaining to assessment of losses incurred during protests, the paper said.

The top judge asked the Punjab advocate general to tell the court how compensatory payments would be made to the victims.

The advocate general said the federal cabinet has approved a compensation package amounting to Rs 26.2 crore.&nbsp;

Justice Ijazul Ahsan, the other member of the bench, asked if a compensation plan had already been prepared or it was just on paper.

Justice Nisar noted that the government has no plan to compensate the losses.

"Two and half months have passed but the government has not submitted any plan for compensation. It is the court that takes pain. If the court didn't order then this plan would not come either," he added.

A section officer of the Interior Ministry told the court that the government would make compensation payments this month.

Later, the court directed the federal and provincial governments to compensate the victims within a month and submit a compliance report in court, the paper said.

Violent protests erupted in several cities across Pakistan after Asia Bibi's acquittal. She had earlier been sentenced to death on blasphemy charges by the Lahore High Court.

Enraged mobs had blocked several routes across the country for three days, while at some places they had also set fire to vehicles. The demonstrations resulted in countrywide closure of schools, colleges and universities, as well as cancellation of examinations.

After three days, the government and the protesters led by the TLP had reached an agreement. The government, however, later launched a crackdown against the party on November 24 and arrested its top leaders as well as thousands of supporters.

Pakistan's Supreme Court has directed the federal and provincial governments to compensate within a month all those who suffered losses during the violent protests by radical Islamist parties following the acquittal of Christian woman Asia Bibi in a blasphemy case.

Pakistan's Supreme Court has directed the federal and provincial governments to compensate within a month all those who suffered losses during the violent protests by radical Islamist parties following the acquittal of Christian woman Asia Bibi in a blasphemy case. The apex court in October overturned the conviction of the 47-year-old mother of four, who was on death row for eight years for blasphemy, in a landmark verdict that sparked nationwide protests, death threats from hardline groups and cheers from human rights advocates. A two-judge bench headed by Pakistan's Chief Justice Saqib Nisar issued the order on Saturday while hearing a suo motu case at the apex court's Lahore Registry regarding losses and damages to property during the three-day long nationwide sit-ins staged by religious parties led by the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), the Express Tribune newspaper reported. As the proceedings started, a government official submitted a report pertaining to assessment of losses incurred during protests, the paper said. The top judge asked the Punjab advocate general to tell the court how compensatory payments would be made to the victims. The advocate general said the federal cabinet has approved a compensation package amounting to Rs 26.2 crore. Justice Ijazul Ahsan, the other member of the bench, asked if a compensation plan had already been prepared or it was just on paper. Justice Nisar noted that the government has no plan to compensate the losses. "Two and half months have passed but the government has not submitted any plan for compensation. It is the court that takes pain. If the court didn't order then this plan would not come either," he added. A section officer of the Interior Ministry told the court that the government would make compensation payments this month. Later, the court directed the federal and provincial governments to compensate the victims within a month and submit a compliance report in court, the paper said. Violent protests erupted in several cities across Pakistan after Asia Bibi's acquittal. She had earlier been sentenced to death on blasphemy charges by the Lahore High Court. Enraged mobs had blocked several routes across the country for three days, while at some places they had also set fire to vehicles. The demonstrations resulted in countrywide closure of schools, colleges and universities, as well as cancellation of examinations. After three days, the government and the protesters led by the TLP had reached an agreement. The government, however, later launched a crackdown against the party on November 24 and arrested its top leaders as well as thousands of supporters.

Pakistan Supreme Court gives govt one month's time to compensate riot victims

Pakistani Christian <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asia-bibi-should-be-given-maximum-protection-in-pakistan-chief-justice-of-pakistan-on-asylum-row-178691">Asia Bibi</a> will celebrate Christmas under guard, despite being cleared of the blasphemy charges that kept her in jail since 2010.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asia-bibis-lawyer-says-she-needs-german-passport-to-leave-178588">Bibi</a> — a former labourer who was on death row for eight years — remains a prime target in conservative Muslim-majority <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-plans-to-relax-visa-policy-in-bid-to-revive-tourism-185822">Pakistan</a>, with extremists calling for her blood and the government refusing to reveal her location out of fear for her safety.

"It's too dangerous... People want to kill her," said Yousaf Hadayat, a resident from one of Islamabad's impoverished Christian ghettos, littered this week by a smattering of Santa hats and Christmas trees.

Security this Christmas, like many before it, will be tight with the government set to deploy armed forces to the Christian colonies.

Residents say they feel more uneasy than ever during the religious holiday while Bibi's fate continues to loom large. 
"We're afraid," said Pastor Munawar Inayat at Holy of Holies Church in Islamabad. "We can't speak against anyone."&nbsp;

The Supreme Court overturned Bibi's death sentence for blasphemy in October, and she has legally been a free woman ever since.

But the ruling ignited days of violent demonstrations that paralysed large swaths of the country, with enraged Islamists calling for her beheading, mutiny within the powerful military and the assassination of the country's top judges.

The government has since launched a crackdown on the Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan (TLP) party — the Islamist group driving the violent protests —charging its leaders with sedition and terrorism.

But authorities also struck a deal with the protesters to end the violence, forming an agreement which included allowing a final review of the Supreme Court's judgement.

Bibi, who is seeking asylum abroad, is believed to be in protective custody inside Pakistan as the review continues. But there is no clear timeline for when it will be completed.

A government spokesman refused to comment on its status, saying only that the matter is with the court.

Analyst Fasi Zaka warned that the longer Bibi remains in limbo, the greater the danger. "For some elements, if they don't have access to Asia Bibi they'll find stand-ins for their vengeance," he told AFP.

Blasphemy continues to be a massively inflammatory issue in Muslim-majority Pakistan, where even unproven accusations of insulting Islam can spark lynchings.

Many cases see Muslims accusing Muslims. But rights activists have warned that minorities — particularly Christians — are often caught in the crossfire, with blasphemy charges used to settle personal scores.

"This is a lightning rod issue that affects a whole community," said Zaka.

The allegations against Bibi date back to 2009, when a fight erupted between her and fellow Muslim labourers, who later accused Bibi of blasphemy. She was convicted under Pakistan's controversial anti-blasphemy laws and in 2010 sentenced to death.

Since her acquittal speculation has been rife that an asylum deal with a European or North American country may be in the works. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Many residents of the 100 Quarters Colony in Islamabad cautioned against Bibi's release, saying her safety would only be guaranteed once she was granted asylum in a foreign country.

"No, no. She cannot stay," said resident Hadayat.

Polio campaign worker Shahnaz Arif argued against Bibi's ongoing custody. "We should get the same freedom that others enjoy," she said.

Even so, she admitted she was afraid, citing Pakistan's long history of political assassinations, including some over blasphemy.

"There is not enough security for our leaders — we are just poor citizens," she explained.

Christians — who make up around two per cent of the population — occupy one of the lowest rungs in class-obsessed Pakistani society, largely living in slums and working menial jobs as street sweepers, cleaners and cooks.

The tension comes as Washington added Pakistan this month to a blacklist of countries that it says wantonly violate religious freedom, citing the country's high number of blasphemy convictions and failure to hold perpetrators targeting religious minorities to account.

Islamabad later dismissed the US move as politically motivated.

Back in the 100 Quarters Colony, residents said their thoughts were with a mother who has already spent many Christmases in solitary confinement.

"Christmas is celebrated with near and dear ones, and not in custody," said Christmas decoration seller Amjab Burgkat.

"There are security fears, but she should celebrate Christmas with her family."&nbsp;

Pakistani Christian Asia Bibi will celebrate Christmas under guard, despite being cleared of the blasphemy charges that kept her in jail since 2010. Bibi — a former labourer who was on death row for eight years — remains a prime target in conservative Muslim-majority Pakistan, with extremists calling for her blood and the government refusing to reveal her location out of fear for her safety.

Pakistani Christian Asia Bibi will celebrate Christmas under guard, despite being cleared of the blasphemy charges that kept her in jail since 2010. Bibi — a former labourer who was on death row for eight years — remains a prime target in conservative Muslim-majority Pakistan, with extremists calling for her blood and the government refusing to reveal her location out of fear for her safety. "It's too dangerous... People want to kill her," said Yousaf Hadayat, a resident from one of Islamabad's impoverished Christian ghettos, littered this week by a smattering of Santa hats and Christmas trees. Security this Christmas, like many before it, will be tight with the government set to deploy armed forces to the Christian colonies. Residents say they feel more uneasy than ever during the religious holiday while Bibi's fate continues to loom large. "We're afraid," said Pastor Munawar Inayat at Holy of Holies Church in Islamabad. "We can't speak against anyone." The Supreme Court overturned Bibi's death sentence for blasphemy in October, and she has legally been a free woman ever since. But the ruling ignited days of violent demonstrations that paralysed large swaths of the country, with enraged Islamists calling for her beheading, mutiny within the powerful military and the assassination of the country's top judges. The government has since launched a crackdown on the Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan (TLP) party — the Islamist group driving the violent protests —charging its leaders with sedition and terrorism. But authorities also struck a deal with the protesters to end the violence, forming an agreement which included allowing a final review of the Supreme Court's judgement. Bibi, who is seeking asylum abroad, is believed to be in protective custody inside Pakistan as the review continues. But there is no clear timeline for when it will be completed. A government spokesman refused to comment on its status, saying only that the matter is with the court. Analyst Fasi Zaka warned that the longer Bibi remains in limbo, the greater the danger. "For some elements, if they don't have access to Asia Bibi they'll find stand-ins for their vengeance," he told AFP. Blasphemy continues to be a massively inflammatory issue in Muslim-majority Pakistan, where even unproven accusations of insulting Islam can spark lynchings. Many cases see Muslims accusing Muslims. But rights activists have warned that minorities — particularly Christians — are often caught in the crossfire, with blasphemy charges used to settle personal scores. "This is a lightning rod issue that affects a whole community," said Zaka. The allegations against Bibi date back to 2009, when a fight erupted between her and fellow Muslim labourers, who later accused Bibi of blasphemy. She was convicted under Pakistan's controversial anti-blasphemy laws and in 2010 sentenced to death. Since her acquittal speculation has been rife that an asylum deal with a European or North American country may be in the works. Many residents of the 100 Quarters Colony in Islamabad cautioned against Bibi's release, saying her safety would only be guaranteed once she was granted asylum in a foreign country. "No, no. She cannot stay," said resident Hadayat. Polio campaign worker Shahnaz Arif argued against Bibi's ongoing custody. "We should get the same freedom that others enjoy," she said. Even so, she admitted she was afraid, citing Pakistan's long history of political assassinations, including some over blasphemy. "There is not enough security for our leaders — we are just poor citizens," she explained. Christians — who make up around two per cent of the population — occupy one of the lowest rungs in class-obsessed Pakistani society, largely living in slums and working menial jobs as street sweepers, cleaners and cooks. The tension comes as Washington added Pakistan this month to a blacklist of countries that it says wantonly violate religious freedom, citing the country's high number of blasphemy convictions and failure to hold perpetrators targeting religious minorities to account. Islamabad later dismissed the US move as politically motivated. Back in the 100 Quarters Colony, residents said their thoughts were with a mother who has already spent many Christmases in solitary confinement. "Christmas is celebrated with near and dear ones, and not in custody," said Christmas decoration seller Amjab Burgkat. "There are security fears, but she should celebrate Christmas with her family."

Exonerated but not free: Asia Bibi to spend Christmas in custody

Pakistan's government on Saturday announced it will press terrorism and sedition charges against leaders of a hardline Islamist group that staged recent protests across the country.

The leader of the Tehreek-e-Labbaik (TLP) party, Khadim Hussain Rizvi, and several senior figures were detained last month after they shut down major cities in protest at the acquittal of a Christian woman who had spent eight years on death row on blasphemy charges.

One of the TLP co-founders called for the killing of the Supreme Court judges who acquitted Asia Bibi, as well as the overthrow of the government and the powerful army chief, General Qamar Javed Bajwa.

Pakistani Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said Rizvi had been "charged under sections of sedition and terrorism" in a police station in the eastern city of Lahore. Three other senior TLP figures are facing the same charges.

"Today we have decided to take legal action against the TLP leadership," Chaudhry told a press conference.

"All those who were directly involved in destroying property, who misbehaved with women, who set fire to buses, are being charged under laws of terrorism at different police stations."

The move represents a hardening of the authorities' stance towards the group, which in late 2017 paralysed the capital Islamabad for several weeks and clashed with the police in deadly protests.

Concessions

In 2017 and last month TLP members called off protests after negotiating with the military and reaching a deal with the government, which made many concessions to appease the group. When Rizvi was finally detained, authorities said he was not arrested, but merely put in "protective custody".

Chaudhry said more than 3,000 TLP members were taken into protective custody in the wake of the protests.

The TLP, whose main focus is protecting Pakistan's draconian blasphemy laws, was founded out of a movement supporting a bodyguard who assassinated Punjab provincial governor Salman Taseer for advocating for Bibi in 2011.

Blasphemy is a deeply emotive issue in Pakistan's staunchly religious society, and officials have been unnerved by how much support Rizvi's TLP has garnered across the country in the two years since the group entered mainstream politics.

Information Minister Chaudhry said Rizvi's deputy, Afzal Qadri, was also charged over terrorism and sedition, along with senior TLP leaders Inyatul Haq Shah and Hafiz Farooq ul Hassan.

Qadri shocked many Pakistanis last month when he called for the overthrow of the army chief, an unthinkable comment in Pakistan where the military is rarely criticised in public and the army normally does not tolerate such dissent.

"Sedition has a sentence of life imprisonment, they can face life imprisonment. All the charges will be submitted before courts," Chaudhry said.

Pakistan's government on Saturday announced it will press terrorism and sedition charges against leaders of a hardline Islamist group that staged recent protests across the country.

Pakistan's government on Saturday announced it will press terrorism and sedition charges against leaders of a hardline Islamist group that staged recent protests across the country. The leader of the Tehreek-e-Labbaik (TLP) party, Khadim Hussain Rizvi, and several senior figures were detained last month after they shut down major cities in protest at the acquittal of a Christian woman who had spent eight years on death row on blasphemy charges. One of the TLP co-founders called for the killing of the Supreme Court judges who acquitted Asia Bibi, as well as the overthrow of the government and the powerful army chief, General Qamar Javed Bajwa. Pakistani Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said Rizvi had been "charged under sections of sedition and terrorism" in a police station in the eastern city of Lahore. Three other senior TLP figures are facing the same charges. "Today we have decided to take legal action against the TLP leadership," Chaudhry told a press conference. "All those who were directly involved in destroying property, who misbehaved with women, who set fire to buses, are being charged under laws of terrorism at different police stations." The move represents a hardening of the authorities' stance towards the group, which in late 2017 paralysed the capital Islamabad for several weeks and clashed with the police in deadly protests. Concessions In 2017 and last month TLP members called off protests after negotiating with the military and reaching a deal with the government, which made many concessions to appease the group. When Rizvi was finally detained, authorities said he was not arrested, but merely put in "protective custody". Chaudhry said more than 3,000 TLP members were taken into protective custody in the wake of the protests. The TLP, whose main focus is protecting Pakistan's draconian blasphemy laws, was founded out of a movement supporting a bodyguard who assassinated Punjab provincial governor Salman Taseer for advocating for Bibi in 2011. Blasphemy is a deeply emotive issue in Pakistan's staunchly religious society, and officials have been unnerved by how much support Rizvi's TLP has garnered across the country in the two years since the group entered mainstream politics. Information Minister Chaudhry said Rizvi's deputy, Afzal Qadri, was also charged over terrorism and sedition, along with senior TLP leaders Inyatul Haq Shah and Hafiz Farooq ul Hassan. Qadri shocked many Pakistanis last month when he called for the overthrow of the army chief, an unthinkable comment in Pakistan where the military is rarely criticised in public and the army normally does not tolerate such dissent. "Sedition has a sentence of life imprisonment, they can face life imprisonment. All the charges will be submitted before courts," Chaudhry said.

Pakistan government to press terrorism, sedition charges against Tehreek-e-Labbaik leader

Pakistani police have arrested over 1,100 members of the Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan, including the radical Islamist party's chief who had given a protest call for Sunday against the acquittal of Christian woman Asia Bibi on blasphemy charges.

Last month, Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) disrupted daily life across Pakistan by staging widespread protests following Bibi's acquittal in a blasphemy case by the apex court.

Among the 1,135 people arrested is TLP chief Khadim Hussain Rizvi, who has been detained under three sections of the MPO ordinance, said a notification issued here earlier today.

Ninety-five people were arrested from Lahore alone, the home department said.&nbsp;

The Punjab government has imposed Section 144 province-wide which will be in effect till December 1. Rallies, demonstrations as well as any congregations of five or more people are banned under the section.

The use or display of any kind of weapons is also prohibited.

A senior police officer told PTI that a team comprising government officials and clerics tried to persuade Rizvi in Lahore late on Friday night to defer its November 25 protest, but he refused to budge.

"On this police arrested him and other leaders," the officer said.

"Khadim Hussain Rizvi has been taken into protective custody by police from Lahore. The action was prompted by TLP's refusal to withdraw its call for protest on

November 25. It is to safeguard public life, property and order," Federal Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry tweeted.

The minister, however, clarified that the "arrest has nothing to do with Asia Bibi case".

"The TLP has become a continuous threat to the life and properties of the citizens and is doing politics under the guise of religion... The situation is fully under control, people should remain peaceful and fully cooperate with authorities," Chaudhry said.

He said the government did its best to convince the party against staging the protest, but they refused every offer and started to incite violence.

There were reports of TLP workers clashing with police in Lahore following Rizvi's arrest. Three policemen and seven workers are reported to have been injured.

The apex court, in a three-member bench led by chief justice Saqib Nisar, issued the landmark verdict last month.&nbsp;

Following the verdict, the TLP had termed the chief justice and other judges in the bench "liable to be killed" and had called Army chief General Qmar Javed Bajwa a non-Muslim and urged Muslim generals to revolt against him.

Bibi was convicted in 2010 after being accused of insulting Islam in a row with her neighbours. She always maintained her innocence, but spent most of the past eight years in solitary confinement.

She has been released from the jail and the government says is in a 'safe' house. The government says she cannot leave the country till decision on the review petition against her acquittal. Chief Justice Nisar has ordered full protection to Bibi.&nbsp;

TLP is an Islamist political party with Islamic ideology. It is known for widespread street power and massive protests in opposition to any change to Pakistan's blasphemy law.

Pakistani police have arrested over 1,100 members of the Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan, including the radical Islamist party's chief who had given a protest call for Sunday against the acquittal of Christian woman Asia Bibi on blasphemy charges.

Pakistani police have arrested over 1,100 members of the Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan, including the radical Islamist party's chief who had given a protest call for Sunday against the acquittal of Christian woman Asia Bibi on blasphemy charges. Last month, Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) disrupted daily life across Pakistan by staging widespread protests following Bibi's acquittal in a blasphemy case by the apex court. Among the 1,135 people arrested is TLP chief Khadim Hussain Rizvi, who has been detained under three sections of the MPO ordinance, said a notification issued here earlier today. Ninety-five people were arrested from Lahore alone, the home department said. The Punjab government has imposed Section 144 province-wide which will be in effect till December 1. Rallies, demonstrations as well as any congregations of five or more people are banned under the section. The use or display of any kind of weapons is also prohibited. A senior police officer told PTI that a team comprising government officials and clerics tried to persuade Rizvi in Lahore late on Friday night to defer its November 25 protest, but he refused to budge. "On this police arrested him and other leaders," the officer said. "Khadim Hussain Rizvi has been taken into protective custody by police from Lahore. The action was prompted by TLP's refusal to withdraw its call for protest on November 25. It is to safeguard public life, property and order," Federal Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry tweeted. The minister, however, clarified that the "arrest has nothing to do with Asia Bibi case". "The TLP has become a continuous threat to the life and properties of the citizens and is doing politics under the guise of religion... The situation is fully under control, people should remain peaceful and fully cooperate with authorities," Chaudhry said. He said the government did its best to convince the party against staging the protest, but they refused every offer and started to incite violence. There were reports of TLP workers clashing with police in Lahore following Rizvi's arrest. Three policemen and seven workers are reported to have been injured. The apex court, in a three-member bench led by chief justice Saqib Nisar, issued the landmark verdict last month. Following the verdict, the TLP had termed the chief justice and other judges in the bench "liable to be killed" and had called Army chief General Qmar Javed Bajwa a non-Muslim and urged Muslim generals to revolt against him. Bibi was convicted in 2010 after being accused of insulting Islam in a row with her neighbours. She always maintained her innocence, but spent most of the past eight years in solitary confinement. She has been released from the jail and the government says is in a 'safe' house. The government says she cannot leave the country till decision on the review petition against her acquittal. Chief Justice Nisar has ordered full protection to Bibi. TLP is an Islamist political party with Islamic ideology. It is known for widespread street power and massive protests in opposition to any change to Pakistan's blasphemy law.

Pakistan arrests over 1,100 members of Tehreek-i-Labbaik party

Pakistan on Saturday detained scores of protesters in a continuing crackdown against followers of a hardline Islamic cleric who led three days of protests over blasphemy laws and whose arrest overnight triggered violent clashes with police.

Members of cleric Khadim Hussain Rizvi's Tehreek-e-Labbaik (TLP) party had shut down major cities in protest earlier this month at the acquittal of a Christian woman who had spent eight years on death row on blasphemy charges.

At least five people were wounded in last night's clashes between Rizvi's supporters and police in the eastern city of Lahore after police arrested the cleric on Friday night.

A spokesman for the Punjab chief minister's office said Rizvi's second-in-command, Afzal Qadri, had also been detained.

"Afzal Qadri and Khadim Rizvi have been sent to jail. Qadri has been admitted to the jail's hospital. A crackdown is underway across Punjab against TLP activists," Shahbaz Gill told Reuters.

Information Minister Fawwad Chaudhry said on Twitter that Rizvi had been placed in protective custody after he refused to withdraw a call for further protests on Sunday.

"It's to safeguard public life, property and order," he said.

Rizvi had urged his supporters to take to the streets if he was arrested. Late on Friday his son said he had been taken away in a raid on his religious school, or madrassa, in Lahore.

A police document seen by Reuters listed 10 other leaders of Rizvi's group who had also been detained.

TLP leaders had threatened the Supreme Court judges who acquitted Asia Bibi - urging their cooks and servants to kill them.

But the group called off protests following negotiations with the government and an agreement to open a review of the court's decision on Bibi.

It is unclear whether Rizvi will appear before a court to face charges. Pakistan has detained Islamist leaders in the past but failed to keep them in custody.

Bibi and her family are in hiding after her release. She was convicted in 2010 for allegedly making derogatory remarks about Islam after neighbours objected to her drinking water from their glass because she was not Muslim. She has always denied committing blasphemy.

In 2011, a bodyguard assassinated Punjab provincial governor Salman Taseer after he began pushing for Bibi's acquittal. The TLP was founded out of a movement that supported the assassin, Mumtaz Qadri.

Pakistan on Saturday detained scores of protesters in a continuing crackdown against followers of a hardline Islamic cleric who led three days of protests over blasphemy laws and whose arrest overnight triggered violent clashes with police.

Pakistan on Saturday detained scores of protesters in a continuing crackdown against followers of a hardline Islamic cleric who led three days of protests over blasphemy laws and whose arrest overnight triggered violent clashes with police. Members of cleric Khadim Hussain Rizvi's Tehreek-e-Labbaik (TLP) party had shut down major cities in protest earlier this month at the acquittal of a Christian woman who had spent eight years on death row on blasphemy charges. At least five people were wounded in last night's clashes between Rizvi's supporters and police in the eastern city of Lahore after police arrested the cleric on Friday night. A spokesman for the Punjab chief minister's office said Rizvi's second-in-command, Afzal Qadri, had also been detained. "Afzal Qadri and Khadim Rizvi have been sent to jail. Qadri has been admitted to the jail's hospital. A crackdown is underway across Punjab against TLP activists," Shahbaz Gill told Reuters. Information Minister Fawwad Chaudhry said on Twitter that Rizvi had been placed in protective custody after he refused to withdraw a call for further protests on Sunday. "It's to safeguard public life, property and order," he said. Rizvi had urged his supporters to take to the streets if he was arrested. Late on Friday his son said he had been taken away in a raid on his religious school, or madrassa, in Lahore. A police document seen by Reuters listed 10 other leaders of Rizvi's group who had also been detained. TLP leaders had threatened the Supreme Court judges who acquitted Asia Bibi - urging their cooks and servants to kill them. But the group called off protests following negotiations with the government and an agreement to open a review of the court's decision on Bibi. It is unclear whether Rizvi will appear before a court to face charges. Pakistan has detained Islamist leaders in the past but failed to keep them in custody. Bibi and her family are in hiding after her release. She was convicted in 2010 for allegedly making derogatory remarks about Islam after neighbours objected to her drinking water from their glass because she was not Muslim. She has always denied committing blasphemy. In 2011, a bodyguard assassinated Punjab provincial governor Salman Taseer after he began pushing for Bibi's acquittal. The TLP was founded out of a movement that supported the assassin, Mumtaz Qadri.

Pakistan: 5 injured in clashes following Tehreek-e-Labbaik cleric detention

Khadim Rizvi arrested for protest call over Asia Bibi's acquittal

Pakistani police late Friday detained a hardline cleric whose party recently paralysed the country with violent protests over the acquittal of a Christian woman accused of blasphemy.

Firebrand cleric Khadim Hussain Rizvi, who is the leader of the Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan (TLP) party, was detained ahead of a scheduled rally on Saturday in Islamabad, the country's information minister Fawad Chaudhry tweeted.

"Khadim Hussain Rizvi has been taken into protective custody by police and shifted to a guest house," Chaudhry tweeted, adding that the move was not linked to the case of Asia Bibi, a Christian woman who was on death row for eight years before the Supreme Court overturned her blasphemy conviction last month.

"It's to safeguard public life, property and order and has to do nothing with (the) Asia Bibi case," Chaudhry tweeted.

"Law shall take its course and it cannot be left to individuals," he added.

The court's decision sparked furious demonstrations led by the hardline TLP, with protesters calling for Bibi's execution as they blocked major roads, leaving large swathes of the country paralysed.

In response, the government made a deal with the Islamists to impose a travel ban on Bibi, who was released from jail earlier this month as she awaits the outcome of a final review of her case. &nbsp;

The TLP has vowed to return to the streets if she is allowed to leave the country.

In a video message released on Friday, another TLP leader Pir Afzal Qadri called for fresh protests, saying police had arrested dozens of party workers in the port city of Karachi and in parts of central Punjab province including Lahore.

Blasphemy is a massively inflammatory issue in Muslim-majority Pakistan, where even unproven allegations of insulting Islam and Prophet Mohammed can lead to lynchings and murders.

Bibi's conviction stemmed from a 2009 incident when she was asked to fetch water while she was out working in the fields.

Muslim women labourers objected to her touching the water bowl as a non-Muslim, and a fight reportedly erupted.

A local imam then claimed Bibi insulted the Prophet Mohammed.

Bibi has consistently denied the charges, and her prosecution rallied international rights groups, politicians and religious figures.

Pakistani police late Friday detained a hardline cleric whose party recently paralysed the country with violent protests over the acquittal of a Christian woman accused of blasphemy.

Pakistani police late Friday detained a hardline cleric whose party recently paralysed the country with violent protests over the acquittal of a Christian woman accused of blasphemy. Firebrand cleric Khadim Hussain Rizvi, who is the leader of the Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan (TLP) party, was detained ahead of a scheduled rally on Saturday in Islamabad, the country's information minister Fawad Chaudhry tweeted. "Khadim Hussain Rizvi has been taken into protective custody by police and shifted to a guest house," Chaudhry tweeted, adding that the move was not linked to the case of Asia Bibi, a Christian woman who was on death row for eight years before the Supreme Court overturned her blasphemy conviction last month. "It's to safeguard public life, property and order and has to do nothing with (the) Asia Bibi case," Chaudhry tweeted. "Law shall take its course and it cannot be left to individuals," he added. The court's decision sparked furious demonstrations led by the hardline TLP, with protesters calling for Bibi's execution as they blocked major roads, leaving large swathes of the country paralysed. In response, the government made a deal with the Islamists to impose a travel ban on Bibi, who was released from jail earlier this month as she awaits the outcome of a final review of her case. The TLP has vowed to return to the streets if she is allowed to leave the country. In a video message released on Friday, another TLP leader Pir Afzal Qadri called for fresh protests, saying police had arrested dozens of party workers in the port city of Karachi and in parts of central Punjab province including Lahore. Blasphemy is a massively inflammatory issue in Muslim-majority Pakistan, where even unproven allegations of insulting Islam and Prophet Mohammed can lead to lynchings and murders. Bibi's conviction stemmed from a 2009 incident when she was asked to fetch water while she was out working in the fields. Muslim women labourers objected to her touching the water bowl as a non-Muslim, and a fight reportedly erupted. A local imam then claimed Bibi insulted the Prophet Mohammed. Bibi has consistently denied the charges, and her prosecution rallied international rights groups, politicians and religious figures.

Pakistan detains hardline cleric behind blasphemy protests: Information minister

Chief Justice of Pakistan on Wednesday said that Asia Bibi should not be&nbsp;given asylum in the UK as it is "duty of the state to protect the life and property of its citizens.", local media reported.

Justice Nisar who is in London for a nine-day trip to raise funds for the Diamer-Bhasha dam, made the comments while he was interacting with media after the event.&nbsp;

He was asked whether Asia Bibi, a Pakistan Christian acuitted of capital blasphemy charges, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asia-bibi-unable-to-leave-pakistan-without-asylum-offer-lawyer-178426">should be given asylum in London</a> to which he responded saying, "As far as the protection is concerned, I don’t think she should be given asylum … because it’s the duty of the state to protect the life and property of its citizens and if she is sent abroad it means that the state of Pakistan has failed," Geo tv quoted him as saying.

"She should be given maximum protection in Pakistan," Justice Nisar added.

The CJP further said that the government of Pakistan has to act strong or there will be no end of such cases which will show the failure of the state.

He further said that safeguarding Asia Bibi is the responsibility of the government.

Bibi, 53, was convicted of blasphemy in 2010 over allegations she made derogatory remarks about Islam after neighbours objected to her drinking water from their glass because she was not Muslim. The Supreme Court acquitted her last month.

She and her family are staying at a safe house in Pakistan, despite offers of asylum from countries including Canada. 
&nbsp;

Chief Justice of Pakistan on Wednesday said that Asia Bibi should not be given asylum in the UK as it is "duty of the state to protect the life and property of its citizens.

Chief Justice of Pakistan on Wednesday said that Asia Bibi should not be given asylum in the UK as it is "duty of the state to protect the life and property of its citizens.", local media reported. Justice Nisar who is in London for a nine-day trip to raise funds for the Diamer-Bhasha dam, made the comments while he was interacting with media after the event. He was asked whether Asia Bibi, a Pakistan Christian acuitted of capital blasphemy charges, should be given asylum in London to which he responded saying, "As far as the protection is concerned, I don’t think she should be given asylum … because it’s the duty of the state to protect the life and property of its citizens and if she is sent abroad it means that the state of Pakistan has failed," Geo tv quoted him as saying. "She should be given maximum protection in Pakistan," Justice Nisar added. The CJP further said that the government of Pakistan has to act strong or there will be no end of such cases which will show the failure of the state. He further said that safeguarding Asia Bibi is the responsibility of the government. Bibi, 53, was convicted of blasphemy in 2010 over allegations she made derogatory remarks about Islam after neighbours objected to her drinking water from their glass because she was not Muslim. The Supreme Court acquitted her last month. She and her family are staying at a safe house in Pakistan, despite offers of asylum from countries including Canada.

Asia Bibi should be given maximum protection in Pakistan: Chief Justice of Pakistan on asylum row

The lawyer for Asia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian acquitted of capital blasphemy charges, appealed on Tuesday to Germany to give her whole family citizenship to start a new life in Europe.

Saiful Mulook told a news conference in Frankfurt that Bibi was now free but she and her family needed a passport to leave the country.

Bibi, 53, was convicted of blasphemy in 2010 over allegations she made derogatory remarks about Islam after neighbours objected to her drinking water from their glass because she was not Muslim. The Supreme Court acquitted her last month.

"The whole world is asking why she's not coming," Mulook told reporters. "The answer is first that to leave a country you need a visa or you require a passport of another country."

"If the German chancellor directs her ambassador to give a passport to her, her husband and her two daughters conferring German nationality, nobody can stop her for one second because she is no longer Pakistani," he added.

"So far, no government has come forward in such an open and free manner," he said.

It was unclear why citizenship, rather than a visa, was necessary for her to leave Pakistan, though Mulook said pressure from religious extremists was making it harder for Islamabad to arrange her departure.

She and her family are staying at a safe house in Pakistan, despite offers of asylum from countries including Canada.

Mulook said the status of a friend of Bibi's husband, who has a wife and five daughters, whom he would like to join them, was a sticking point. Another wife of Bibi's husband and her three daughters were not seeking to leave Pakistan with Bibi, he added.

German officials have said that they and a number of other countries are in talks with Bibi's family and the Pakistani government to find a way of rehousing her.

Mulook, who has himself sought refuge in the Netherlands after being threatened for taking on Bibi's case, said Bibi had no preference as to which country she would travel to for asylum.

The German government had no immediate comment on the request for a passport.

The lawyer for Asia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian acquitted of capital blasphemy charges, appealed on Tuesday to Germany to give her whole family citizenship to start a new life in Europe.

The lawyer for Asia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian acquitted of capital blasphemy charges, appealed on Tuesday to Germany to give her whole family citizenship to start a new life in Europe. Saiful Mulook told a news conference in Frankfurt that Bibi was now free but she and her family needed a passport to leave the country. Bibi, 53, was convicted of blasphemy in 2010 over allegations she made derogatory remarks about Islam after neighbours objected to her drinking water from their glass because she was not Muslim. The Supreme Court acquitted her last month. "The whole world is asking why she's not coming," Mulook told reporters. "The answer is first that to leave a country you need a visa or you require a passport of another country." "If the German chancellor directs her ambassador to give a passport to her, her husband and her two daughters conferring German nationality, nobody can stop her for one second because she is no longer Pakistani," he added. "So far, no government has come forward in such an open and free manner," he said. It was unclear why citizenship, rather than a visa, was necessary for her to leave Pakistan, though Mulook said pressure from religious extremists was making it harder for Islamabad to arrange her departure. She and her family are staying at a safe house in Pakistan, despite offers of asylum from countries including Canada. Mulook said the status of a friend of Bibi's husband, who has a wife and five daughters, whom he would like to join them, was a sticking point. Another wife of Bibi's husband and her three daughters were not seeking to leave Pakistan with Bibi, he added. German officials have said that they and a number of other countries are in talks with Bibi's family and the Pakistani government to find a way of rehousing her. Mulook, who has himself sought refuge in the Netherlands after being threatened for taking on Bibi's case, said Bibi had no preference as to which country she would travel to for asylum. The German government had no immediate comment on the request for a passport.

Asia Bibi's lawyer says she needs German passport to leave Pakistan

The lawyer for <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/un-denies-forcing-asia-bibis-lawyer-to-leave-for-netherlands-175962">Asia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian acquitted of capital blasphemy charges</a>, appealed on Tuesday (November 20) to Germany to give her whole family citizenship to start a new life in Europe.

Saiful Mulook told a news conference in Frankfurt that Bibi was now free but she and her family needed a passport to leave the country.

Bibi, 53, was convicted of blasphemy in 2010 over allegations she made derogatory remarks about Islam after neighbours objected to her drinking water from their glass because she was not Muslim.

The Supreme Court acquitted her last month.

It was unclear why citizenship, rather than a visa, was necessary for her to leave Pakistan, though Mulook said pressure from religious extremists was making it harder for Islamabad to arrange her departure.

She and her family are staying at a safe house in Pakistan, despite offers of asylum from countries including Canada.

Mulook said the status of a friend of Bibi's husband, who has a wife and five daughters, whom he would like to join them, was a sticking point. Another wife of Bibi's husband and her three daughters were not seeking to leave Pakistan with Bibi, he added.

German officials have said that they and a number of other countries are in talks with Bibi's family and the Pakistani government to find a way of rehousing her.

Mulook, who has himself sought refuge in the Netherlands after being threatened for taking on Bibi's case, said Bibi had no preference as to which country she would travel to for asylum.

The German government had no immediate comment on the request for a passport.

The lawyer for Asia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian acquitted of capital blasphemy charges, appealed on Tuesday (November 20) to Germany to give her whole family citizenship to start a new life in Europe.

The lawyer for Asia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian acquitted of capital blasphemy charges, appealed on Tuesday (November 20) to Germany to give her whole family citizenship to start a new life in Europe. Saiful Mulook told a news conference in Frankfurt that Bibi was now free but she and her family needed a passport to leave the country. Bibi, 53, was convicted of blasphemy in 2010 over allegations she made derogatory remarks about Islam after neighbours objected to her drinking water from their glass because she was not Muslim. The Supreme Court acquitted her last month. It was unclear why citizenship, rather than a visa, was necessary for her to leave Pakistan, though Mulook said pressure from religious extremists was making it harder for Islamabad to arrange her departure. She and her family are staying at a safe house in Pakistan, despite offers of asylum from countries including Canada. Mulook said the status of a friend of Bibi's husband, who has a wife and five daughters, whom he would like to join them, was a sticking point. Another wife of Bibi's husband and her three daughters were not seeking to leave Pakistan with Bibi, he added. German officials have said that they and a number of other countries are in talks with Bibi's family and the Pakistani government to find a way of rehousing her. Mulook, who has himself sought refuge in the Netherlands after being threatened for taking on Bibi's case, said Bibi had no preference as to which country she would travel to for asylum. The German government had no immediate comment on the request for a passport.

Asia Bibi unable to leave Pakistan without asylum offer: Lawyer

A top Republican Senator has urged US President Donald Trump to grant asylum and refugee status to Pakistani national Asia Bibi, a Christian woman recently freed from prison after her blasphemy conviction was overturned.

Bibi, a 47-year-old mother of four, was release from Multan jail earlier this month after the Supreme Court in its landmark decision acquitted her of blasphemy charges.

Senator Rand Paul said that he was worried that Bibi won't survive and he personally took up the matter with President Trump last week.

"I've been fighting for them to free Asia Bibi. I've talked to the President about granting her asylum and refugee status here," Paul told CNN in an interview.

A senior member from an American think-tank has also suggested that Bibi should request asylum.&nbsp;

"President Trump should invite Ms Bibi to come to America and request asylum. To do so would be just, moral and wise," Clifford D May, president of the Foundation for Defence of Democracies, said in an op-ed in The Washington Times this week.

A top Republican Senator has urged US President Donald Trump to grant asylum and refugee status to Pakistani national Asia Bibi, a Christian woman recently freed from prison after her blasphemy conviction was overturned.

A top Republican Senator has urged US President Donald Trump to grant asylum and refugee status to Pakistani national Asia Bibi, a Christian woman recently freed from prison after her blasphemy conviction was overturned. Bibi, a 47-year-old mother of four, was release from Multan jail earlier this month after the Supreme Court in its landmark decision acquitted her of blasphemy charges. Senator Rand Paul said that he was worried that Bibi won't survive and he personally took up the matter with President Trump last week. "I've been fighting for them to free Asia Bibi. I've talked to the President about granting her asylum and refugee status here," Paul told CNN in an interview. A senior member from an American think-tank has also suggested that Bibi should request asylum. "President Trump should invite Ms Bibi to come to America and request asylum. To do so would be just, moral and wise," Clifford D May, president of the Foundation for Defence of Democracies, said in an op-ed in The Washington Times this week.

US Senator seeks political asylum for Asia Bibi

In the wake of the wave of opposition and resignations from the government and the Parliament over the volatile issue of Brexit, British ruling Conservative Party suffered another jolt on Thursday (November 15) when its Vice Chairman and Prime Minister`s Trade Envoy to Pakistan, Rehman Chishti, resigned from both portfolios.

Chishti is a Member of Parliament for Gillingham and Rainham constituencies.

In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Theresa May on November 15, Rehman Chishti openly opposed her policy on Brexit and termed it absolute contradiction to the promises made to public in the election manifesto.

"At the outset, this, for me is about delivering on the promises that we made to the British people at the General Election last year in our manifesto, that leaving the European Union (EU) means leaving the Single Market and the Customs Union, that the UK will be taking back, control over our laws, our borders and our money...The terms of the backstop, in effect, amount in my view to a hybrid membership of the EU Customs Union and Single Market and further the EU would hold a veto over our ability to exit. The UK in effect will be part of a system where it will be a rule taker without any say on the rules," he stated.

The second point of his resignation letter was Pakistani Christian woman Asia Bibi`s case. He complained that the government has dealt with the case inappropriately.

"This is a case that I have worked on passionately since 2012, alongside Bishop Michael Nazir Ali (former Bishop of Rochester) to ensure that justice is done which was handed down by the Pakistan Supreme Court only recently", he wrote.

Rehman Chishti added, "What I found shocking, is that the British Government is failing to put into practice the core values that our country stands for; religious freedom, justice, morally doing the right thing and that when we see injustice where an individual`s life is in clear danger and they have been persecuted for their faith, we do all that we can to help them. The Government should not wait to see if another country offers sanctuary, we should have had the conviction to lead on this matter and offer sanctuary ourselves straight away".

Rehman Chishti aka `Ray Chishti` drew the attention of Prime Minister Theresa May towards his letter sent to her on November 13 and said the letter has now the support of 124 British Parliamentarians of both Houses.

He once again requested for her personal intervention in this case and to ensure that a morally right decision is finally made which takes into account of British core values, irrespective of the position that any other country may take on this.

Referring to his appointment as PM`s Trade Envoy to Pakistan, Chishti said that he enjoyed this responsibility for the past 14 months for a country that he passionately cares about.

He added that the UK-Pakistan Trade Team has done fantastic work and the trade between the two countries has increased by over 10 per cent in the last year alone and now stands at £2.9 billion.&nbsp;

In the wake of the wave of opposition and resignations from the government and the Parliament over the volatile issue of Brexit, British ruling Conservative Party suffered another jolt on Thursday (November 15) when its Vice Chairman and Prime Minister`s Trade Envoy to Pakistan, Rehman Chishti, resigned from both portfolios.

In the wake of the wave of opposition and resignations from the government and the Parliament over the volatile issue of Brexit, British ruling Conservative Party suffered another jolt on Thursday (November 15) when its Vice Chairman and Prime Minister`s Trade Envoy to Pakistan, Rehman Chishti, resigned from both portfolios. Chishti is a Member of Parliament for Gillingham and Rainham constituencies. In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Theresa May on November 15, Rehman Chishti openly opposed her policy on Brexit and termed it absolute contradiction to the promises made to public in the election manifesto. "At the outset, this, for me is about delivering on the promises that we made to the British people at the General Election last year in our manifesto, that leaving the European Union (EU) means leaving the Single Market and the Customs Union, that the UK will be taking back, control over our laws, our borders and our money...The terms of the backstop, in effect, amount in my view to a hybrid membership of the EU Customs Union and Single Market and further the EU would hold a veto over our ability to exit. The UK in effect will be part of a system where it will be a rule taker without any say on the rules," he stated. The second point of his resignation letter was Pakistani Christian woman Asia Bibi`s case. He complained that the government has dealt with the case inappropriately. "This is a case that I have worked on passionately since 2012, alongside Bishop Michael Nazir Ali (former Bishop of Rochester) to ensure that justice is done which was handed down by the Pakistan Supreme Court only recently", he wrote. Rehman Chishti added, "What I found shocking, is that the British Government is failing to put into practice the core values that our country stands for; religious freedom, justice, morally doing the right thing and that when we see injustice where an individual`s life is in clear danger and they have been persecuted for their faith, we do all that we can to help them. The Government should not wait to see if another country offers sanctuary, we should have had the conviction to lead on this matter and offer sanctuary ourselves straight away". Rehman Chishti aka `Ray Chishti` drew the attention of Prime Minister Theresa May towards his letter sent to her on November 13 and said the letter has now the support of 124 British Parliamentarians of both Houses. He once again requested for her personal intervention in this case and to ensure that a morally right decision is finally made which takes into account of British core values, irrespective of the position that any other country may take on this. Referring to his appointment as PM`s Trade Envoy to Pakistan, Chishti said that he enjoyed this responsibility for the past 14 months for a country that he passionately cares about. He added that the UK-Pakistan Trade Team has done fantastic work and the trade between the two countries has increased by over 10 per cent in the last year alone and now stands at £2.9 billion.

British MP Rehman Chishti resigns from UK top portfolios over Brexit, Asia Bibi case

A week after being freed from jail, Asia Bibi -- a Pakistani Christian woman on death row for eight years for blasphemy -- remains in limbo, with negotiations apparently under way to allow her to leave the country despite objections from Islamist hardliners demanding her execution.

Since the Supreme Court overturned Bibi's conviction last month, Pakistan has been rattled by violent protests from Islamists calling for her beheading, for mutiny in the armed forces and for the murder of the country's top judges.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;Blasphemy is a massively inflammatory issue in Muslim-majority Pakistan, where even unproven allegations of insulting Islam and Prophet Mohammed can lead to lynchings and murders.

Earlier this month, the government struck a deal with the demonstrators after days of street protests saw large swathes of the country paralysed.

But questions remain over Bibi's whereabouts, the court's decision, and how hardliners may react to further developments.

Here's a brief rundown of where things stand and what might happen next.

Rumours are rife in Pakistan that she has already left the country, with fake reports claiming she met with Pope Francis in the Vatican. 
AFP has debunked the reports of Bibi meeting the pontiff.

The Pakistani government has repeatedly stated that Bibi is being held in a secure location in Pakistan after being released from a prison in central Multan last week, though her exact whereabouts are unknown.

She is not being allowed to leave the country as her case is subjected to a final review.

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi reiterated the government's position again in Islamabad on Wednesday, saying: "We have clarified earlier and we clarify it again. She has not gone abroad. She is here. There is no controversy."&nbsp;

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan initially spoke forcefully against the protests, and vowed to confront any violence.

Since then he has stayed largely quiet about Bibi's fate.

The ruling from the Supreme Court is in the process of being reviewed following a petition request.

The petition essentially checks to see if any procedural or clerical errors were made by the court during its final ruling.

If there were not, then the decision will stand. The chances of the apex court's acquittal being overturned are slim, according to Bibi's lawyer. 
Where will she go next?

No one knows. However, it does appear that a deal may be in the works to move Bibi out of the country.

Earlier this week, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that his government was holding talks with Pakistan over potentially offering asylum.

"There is a delicate domestic context that we respect which is why I don't want to say any more about that, but I will remind people Canada is a welcoming country," Trudeau told AFP.

The Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan (TLP) party, which led the violent demonstrations after Bibi's release, slammed Trudeau's comments.

"We strongly oppose even her release. And this is a view of millions of Pakistani Muslims," said TLP spokesman Ijaz Ashrafi.

Of course a big concern for any country that opens its doors to Bibi will be the potential blowback from hardliners in Pakistan.

Earlier this week, the Netherlands embassy pulled staff members from Pakistan over persistent threats, reportedly from hardliners angry over anti-Islam tweets by the far-right Dutch politician Geert Wilders.

A week after being freed from jail, Asia Bibi -- a Pakistani Christian woman on death row for eight years for blasphemy -- remains in limbo, with negotiations apparently under way to allow her to leave the country despite objections from Islamist hardliners demanding her execution.

A week after being freed from jail, Asia Bibi -- a Pakistani Christian woman on death row for eight years for blasphemy -- remains in limbo, with negotiations apparently under way to allow her to leave the country despite objections from Islamist hardliners demanding her execution. Since the Supreme Court overturned Bibi's conviction last month, Pakistan has been rattled by violent protests from Islamists calling for her beheading, for mutiny in the armed forces and for the murder of the country's top judges. Blasphemy is a massively inflammatory issue in Muslim-majority Pakistan, where even unproven allegations of insulting Islam and Prophet Mohammed can lead to lynchings and murders. Earlier this month, the government struck a deal with the demonstrators after days of street protests saw large swathes of the country paralysed. But questions remain over Bibi's whereabouts, the court's decision, and how hardliners may react to further developments. Here's a brief rundown of where things stand and what might happen next. Rumours are rife in Pakistan that she has already left the country, with fake reports claiming she met with Pope Francis in the Vatican. AFP has debunked the reports of Bibi meeting the pontiff. The Pakistani government has repeatedly stated that Bibi is being held in a secure location in Pakistan after being released from a prison in central Multan last week, though her exact whereabouts are unknown. She is not being allowed to leave the country as her case is subjected to a final review. Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi reiterated the government's position again in Islamabad on Wednesday, saying: "We have clarified earlier and we clarify it again. She has not gone abroad. She is here. There is no controversy." Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan initially spoke forcefully against the protests, and vowed to confront any violence. Since then he has stayed largely quiet about Bibi's fate. The ruling from the Supreme Court is in the process of being reviewed following a petition request. The petition essentially checks to see if any procedural or clerical errors were made by the court during its final ruling. If there were not, then the decision will stand. The chances of the apex court's acquittal being overturned are slim, according to Bibi's lawyer. Where will she go next? No one knows. However, it does appear that a deal may be in the works to move Bibi out of the country. Earlier this week, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that his government was holding talks with Pakistan over potentially offering asylum. "There is a delicate domestic context that we respect which is why I don't want to say any more about that, but I will remind people Canada is a welcoming country," Trudeau told AFP. The Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan (TLP) party, which led the violent demonstrations after Bibi's release, slammed Trudeau's comments. "We strongly oppose even her release. And this is a view of millions of Pakistani Muslims," said TLP spokesman Ijaz Ashrafi. Of course a big concern for any country that opens its doors to Bibi will be the potential blowback from hardliners in Pakistan. Earlier this week, the Netherlands embassy pulled staff members from Pakistan over persistent threats, reportedly from hardliners angry over anti-Islam tweets by the far-right Dutch politician Geert Wilders.

Asia Bibi: Pakistani Christian woman in limbo after blasphemy verdict

President of the European Parliament Antonio Tajani made a phone call to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday thanking him for ensuring safety and security for Asia Bibi and her family.

Tajani also informed the Pakistan&nbsp;prime minister&nbsp;that the debate on Asia Bibi in the EU parliament has been postponed and also assured EU Parliament's cooperation with the government.

PM Imran Khan reaffirmed the government’s resolve to respect the judgment of the Supreme Court of Pakistan, adding that as citizens of Pakistan, Asia Bibi and her family were&nbsp;entitled to all rights as guaranteed by the constitution of Pakistan.&nbsp;

Imran Khan also conveyed serious concerns of the government&nbsp;on the issue of blasphemous cartoons and caricatures of the holy prophet, underscoring the need to redouble efforts in European countries to avoid such provocative incidents and emphasised the need to raise greater awareness about religious sensitivities of Muslims, particularly the respect of prophet Muhammad and promote inter-faith harmony.&nbsp;

Khan stressed the need for respecting each other’s religious sentiments while calling for enhanced dialogue as well as cooperation for promoting inter-cultural and inter-faith harmony.&nbsp;

Khan welcomed the European Court's recent decision&nbsp;on human right’s&nbsp;which decided&nbsp;not to allow acts of blasphemy under the cloak of right to freedom of expression.

The Pakistan prime minister also expressed the hope that European countries would follow the decision of the European Court and take steps to enhance respect for each other’s religions and inter-faith harmony.&nbsp;

President of the European Parliament Antonio Tajani made a phone call to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday thanking him for ensuring safety and security for Asia Bibi and her family.

President of the European Parliament Antonio Tajani made a phone call to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday thanking him for ensuring safety and security for Asia Bibi and her family. Tajani also informed the Pakistan prime minister that the debate on Asia Bibi in the EU parliament has been postponed and also assured EU Parliament's cooperation with the government. PM Imran Khan reaffirmed the government’s resolve to respect the judgment of the Supreme Court of Pakistan, adding that as citizens of Pakistan, Asia Bibi and her family were entitled to all rights as guaranteed by the constitution of Pakistan. Imran Khan also conveyed serious concerns of the government on the issue of blasphemous cartoons and caricatures of the holy prophet, underscoring the need to redouble efforts in European countries to avoid such provocative incidents and emphasised the need to raise greater awareness about religious sensitivities of Muslims, particularly the respect of prophet Muhammad and promote inter-faith harmony. Khan stressed the need for respecting each other’s religious sentiments while calling for enhanced dialogue as well as cooperation for promoting inter-cultural and inter-faith harmony. Khan welcomed the European Court's recent decision on human right’s which decided not to allow acts of blasphemy under the cloak of right to freedom of expression. The Pakistan prime minister also expressed the hope that European countries would follow the decision of the European Court and take steps to enhance respect for each other’s religions and inter-faith harmony.

Debate on Asia Bibi postponed in EU parliament: Antonio Tajani informs PM Imran Khan

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Monday talks are underway with the Pakistani government over a Pakistani Christian woman whose acquittal on blasphemy charges against Islam last month sparked mass protests in the South Asian country.

Asia Bibi, who spent eight years on death row in Pakistan before being released, is in protective custody because her life is in danger from those who disagree with the acquittal. Bibi's husband, Ashiq Masih, has appealed for help to Britain, Canada, Italy and the United States.&nbsp;

"We are in discussions with the Pakistani government," Trudeau said in an interview with Agence France Presse in Paris, where he attended a ceremony marking the end of World War One. His comments were confirmed by a spokesman in Ottawa.

"There is a delicate domestic context that we respect which is why I don't want to say any more about that, but I will remind people Canada is a welcoming country," he added.

While AFP said the discussions were about potentially offering Bibi and her family asylum, this was not confirmed by the spokesman in Ottawa.

Islamists have threatened to escalate protests in Pakistan if Bibi is permitted to leave the country. The government has indicated it will bar her from travelling abroad.

Last week, Canada urged Pakistan to ensure Bibi's well-being and Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland said the government was "extremely engaged in this issue".

Bibi was convicted of blasphemy in 2010 after neighbours said she made derogatory remarks about Islam when they objected to her drinking water from their glass because she was not Muslim. She is a Protestant and denies committing blasphemy.

Islamists shut down roads in major cities in Pakistan during three days of demonstrations against Bibi's acquittal at the end of last month.

Bibi's lawyer, Saiful Mulook, fled to the Netherlands earlier this week because of fears for the safety of his family.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Monday talks are underway with the Pakistani government over a Pakistani Christian woman whose acquittal on blasphemy charges against Islam last month sparked mass protests in the South Asian country.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Monday talks are underway with the Pakistani government over a Pakistani Christian woman whose acquittal on blasphemy charges against Islam last month sparked mass protests in the South Asian country. Asia Bibi, who spent eight years on death row in Pakistan before being released, is in protective custody because her life is in danger from those who disagree with the acquittal. Bibi's husband, Ashiq Masih, has appealed for help to Britain, Canada, Italy and the United States. "We are in discussions with the Pakistani government," Trudeau said in an interview with Agence France Presse in Paris, where he attended a ceremony marking the end of World War One. His comments were confirmed by a spokesman in Ottawa. "There is a delicate domestic context that we respect which is why I don't want to say any more about that, but I will remind people Canada is a welcoming country," he added. While AFP said the discussions were about potentially offering Bibi and her family asylum, this was not confirmed by the spokesman in Ottawa. Islamists have threatened to escalate protests in Pakistan if Bibi is permitted to leave the country. The government has indicated it will bar her from travelling abroad. Last week, Canada urged Pakistan to ensure Bibi's well-being and Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland said the government was "extremely engaged in this issue". Bibi was convicted of blasphemy in 2010 after neighbours said she made derogatory remarks about Islam when they objected to her drinking water from their glass because she was not Muslim. She is a Protestant and denies committing blasphemy. Islamists shut down roads in major cities in Pakistan during three days of demonstrations against Bibi's acquittal at the end of last month. Bibi's lawyer, Saiful Mulook, fled to the Netherlands earlier this week because of fears for the safety of his family.

Canada in talks with Pakistan over Asia Bibi: Justin Trudeau

The Netherlands resumed visa and passport services in Pakistan on Monday following a brief suspension, denying that its embassy had closed over security concerns after the country gave shelter to the lawyer of a Christian woman in a blasphemy case.

Hard-line Islamists in Pakistan have blocked streets and called for the killing of judges after the Supreme Court overturned on October&nbsp;31 the conviction of Asia Bibi, a mother of five, who had been on death row for eight years.

Bibi's lawyer, Saiful Mulook, fled to the Netherlands soon after the verdict, citing death threats. The Dutch government said on Thursday that it had offered him temporary shelter.

On Friday the Dutch government said in a statement that its embassy in Pakistan, which is in a tightly guarded "diplomatic enclave", had temporarily halted issuing visas "due to circumstances beyond our control".

On Monday evening, the embassy updated the statement: "The Netherlands embassy in Pakistan has resumed all consular/visa related services."

Pakistani media reported that the embassy had been forced to close because of threats. But the Dutch Foreign Ministry said reports of the embassy's closure were mistaken.

"The Dutch embassy in Pakistan is open," the ministry said. "I can add that we take the security of the embassy and our employees very seriously. This is also the subject of consultations between the Netherlands and Pakistan," an official at the Dutch foreign office said.

No one answered the telephone at the Dutch embassy after office hours on Monday.

Bibi, 53, was convicted of blasphemy in 2010 over allegations she made derogatory remarks about Islam, which is punishable by death in Pakistan. She always denied having committed blasphemy.

The militant Tehreek-e-Labaik (TLP) party, which has made blasphemy a rallying cry, took to the streets after the Supreme Court ruling and blocked main cities and highways for three days.

The protests ended after the government of Prime Minister Imran Khan struck a deal with the TLP that the state would not block a petition to review Bibi's acquittal in light of sharia Islamic religious law and ensure she wouldn't leave country until that was decided.

Pakistani government officials have said Bibi is in a secure location while the court considers her case.

The Netherlands resumed visa and passport services in Pakistan on Monday following a brief suspension, denying that its embassy had closed over security concerns after the country gave shelter to the lawyer of a Christian woman in a blasphemy case.

The Netherlands resumed visa and passport services in Pakistan on Monday following a brief suspension, denying that its embassy had closed over security concerns after the country gave shelter to the lawyer of a Christian woman in a blasphemy case. Hard-line Islamists in Pakistan have blocked streets and called for the killing of judges after the Supreme Court overturned on October 31 the conviction of Asia Bibi, a mother of five, who had been on death row for eight years. Bibi's lawyer, Saiful Mulook, fled to the Netherlands soon after the verdict, citing death threats. The Dutch government said on Thursday that it had offered him temporary shelter. On Friday the Dutch government said in a statement that its embassy in Pakistan, which is in a tightly guarded "diplomatic enclave", had temporarily halted issuing visas "due to circumstances beyond our control". On Monday evening, the embassy updated the statement: "The Netherlands embassy in Pakistan has resumed all consular/visa related services." Pakistani media reported that the embassy had been forced to close because of threats. But the Dutch Foreign Ministry said reports of the embassy's closure were mistaken. "The Dutch embassy in Pakistan is open," the ministry said. "I can add that we take the security of the embassy and our employees very seriously. This is also the subject of consultations between the Netherlands and Pakistan," an official at the Dutch foreign office said. No one answered the telephone at the Dutch embassy after office hours on Monday. Bibi, 53, was convicted of blasphemy in 2010 over allegations she made derogatory remarks about Islam, which is punishable by death in Pakistan. She always denied having committed blasphemy. The militant Tehreek-e-Labaik (TLP) party, which has made blasphemy a rallying cry, took to the streets after the Supreme Court ruling and blocked main cities and highways for three days. The protests ended after the government of Prime Minister Imran Khan struck a deal with the TLP that the state would not block a petition to review Bibi's acquittal in light of sharia Islamic religious law and ensure she wouldn't leave country until that was decided. Pakistani government officials have said Bibi is in a secure location while the court considers her case.

Netherlands resumes visa service in Pakistan after brief halt

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Monday that his government was holding talks with Pakistan over potentially offering asylum to Asia Bibi, a Christian woman recently freed from prison after her blasphemy conviction was overturned.

"We are in discussions with the Pakistani government," Trudeau said in an interview with AFP in Paris, where he was attending a peace conference organised by French President Emmanuel Macron.

"There is a delicate domestic context that we respect which is why I don't want to say any more about that, but I will remind people Canada is a welcoming country," he said.

Bibi has been blocked from leaving Pakistan after the overturning of her conviction prompted a wave of protests among Islamist hard-liners.

She has since been flown to a "safe place" in the country as several governments have offered to grant her family asylum.

Her husband has appealed in particular to Britain, Canada and the United States, claiming that Bibi's life would be in danger as long as she lived in Pakistan.

Bibi's conviction stemmed from a 2009 incident when she was asked to fetch water while out working in the fields.

Muslim labourers objected to her touching the water bowl as a non-Muslim. A fight reportedly erupted, and a local imam then claimed Bibi insulted the Prophet Mohammed.

Bibi has consistently denied the charges and her prosecution rallied international rights groups, politicians and religious figures.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Monday that his government was holding talks with Pakistan over potentially offering asylum to Asia Bibi, a Christian woman recently freed from prison after her blasphemy conviction was overturned.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Monday that his government was holding talks with Pakistan over potentially offering asylum to Asia Bibi, a Christian woman recently freed from prison after her blasphemy conviction was overturned. "We are in discussions with the Pakistani government," Trudeau said in an interview with AFP in Paris, where he was attending a peace conference organised by French President Emmanuel Macron. "There is a delicate domestic context that we respect which is why I don't want to say any more about that, but I will remind people Canada is a welcoming country," he said. Bibi has been blocked from leaving Pakistan after the overturning of her conviction prompted a wave of protests among Islamist hard-liners. She has since been flown to a "safe place" in the country as several governments have offered to grant her family asylum. Her husband has appealed in particular to Britain, Canada and the United States, claiming that Bibi's life would be in danger as long as she lived in Pakistan. Bibi's conviction stemmed from a 2009 incident when she was asked to fetch water while out working in the fields. Muslim labourers objected to her touching the water bowl as a non-Muslim. A fight reportedly erupted, and a local imam then claimed Bibi insulted the Prophet Mohammed. Bibi has consistently denied the charges and her prosecution rallied international rights groups, politicians and religious figures.

Canada in talks with Pakistan over possibly taking in Asia Bibi

The Pakistan government Monday rejected the reports claiming Aasia Bibi has fled abroad, saying the images on the social media showing the recently-acquitted Christian woman being greeted overseas are "fake".

Bibi, a 47-year-old mother of four, was release from Multan jail last week after the Supreme Court in its landmark decision acquitted her of blasphemy charges.

She was convicted in 2010 after being accused of insulting Islam in a row with her neighbours. Bibi always maintained her innocence, but spent most of the past eight years in solitary confinement.

"Fake news is a big challenge. Aasia Bibi is in Pakistan and images of her leaving the country and greeted abroad are fake," Federal Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry told PTI.

He said some media outlets showed irresponsibility by reporting that Bibi had left the country after her release from the jail.

Chaudhry said the government was considering to introduce a law to regulate the social media.

"There is a need to check the unchecked social media and bring it within the ambit of law," he said, adding that fake news and fake notifications come up from fake accounts on social media on almost daily basis and needed to be checked.

Bibi's acquittal sparked violent protests from radical Islamists across Pakistan.

The Imran Khan-led government had agreed to their demand to stop her from leaving Pakistan and extend its help to place her name on no-fly list.

The BBC Urdu's report that she had been taken to another country created a lot of confusion and the Foreign Office had to issue a clarification that Bibi was in the country.

Earlier, Bibi's husband had appealed to US President Donald Trump and premiers of the UK and Canada to help her and other family members leave Pakistan as their lives were in danger. Italy had offered asylum to Bibi.

Reacting to the uproar over Aasia's acquittal, Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed's Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD) said it had "some reservations over the

Aasia Bibi acquittal" but respects the national institutions including the judiciary.

The Pakistan government Monday rejected the reports claiming Aasia Bibi has fled abroad, saying the images on the social media showing the recently-acquitted Christian woman being greeted overseas are "fake".

The Pakistan government Monday rejected the reports claiming Aasia Bibi has fled abroad, saying the images on the social media showing the recently-acquitted Christian woman being greeted overseas are "fake". Bibi, a 47-year-old mother of four, was release from Multan jail last week after the Supreme Court in its landmark decision acquitted her of blasphemy charges. She was convicted in 2010 after being accused of insulting Islam in a row with her neighbours. Bibi always maintained her innocence, but spent most of the past eight years in solitary confinement. "Fake news is a big challenge. Aasia Bibi is in Pakistan and images of her leaving the country and greeted abroad are fake," Federal Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry told PTI. He said some media outlets showed irresponsibility by reporting that Bibi had left the country after her release from the jail. Chaudhry said the government was considering to introduce a law to regulate the social media. "There is a need to check the unchecked social media and bring it within the ambit of law," he said, adding that fake news and fake notifications come up from fake accounts on social media on almost daily basis and needed to be checked. Bibi's acquittal sparked violent protests from radical Islamists across Pakistan. The Imran Khan-led government had agreed to their demand to stop her from leaving Pakistan and extend its help to place her name on no-fly list. The BBC Urdu's report that she had been taken to another country created a lot of confusion and the Foreign Office had to issue a clarification that Bibi was in the country. Earlier, Bibi's husband had appealed to US President Donald Trump and premiers of the UK and Canada to help her and other family members leave Pakistan as their lives were in danger. Italy had offered asylum to Bibi. Reacting to the uproar over Aasia's acquittal, Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed's Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD) said it had "some reservations over the Aasia Bibi acquittal" but respects the national institutions including the judiciary.

Reports of Asia leaving Pakistan 'fake': Minister

The Netherlands <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/eu-politicians-demand-safe-passage-for-asia-bibi-176542">government announced today </a>that it was shutting down its embassy in Pakistan due to security concerns.

Due to circumstances beyond our control, the issuing of visa has been halted temporarily, the government informed in its website.

The embassy won't be issuing any visa applications nor offer consular services, it said.

A Pakistan interior ministry letter revealed that&nbsp;Tehreek-e-Labaik(TLP) planned to target Dutch ambassador Ardi Stoios-Bracken to "seek revenge for uploading blasphemous caricatures by great Wilders, Dutch Parliamentarian, on his personal account."

The letter ordered a security survey of the area around the embassy and sought to reinforce fencing in the diplomatic enclave.

<img alt="Letter by Pak interior ministry" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fcb4b4cc-9e90-4102-a882-3cecd0b04526" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Letter.jpg" />

The embassy move comes after&nbsp;Pakistani Christian Asia Bibi's lawyer Saiful Mulook fled to the Netherlands last week seeking temporary asylum after his client's conviction was overturned by the Pakistan Supreme Court. 
&nbsp; 
Asia was lodged in jail since 2010 after being convicted by a Pakistan court under blasphemy law but was set free by the country's top court leading to large-scale&nbsp;protests by the Islamists.

Thousands of Islamists protested in Karachi last Thursday after Asia Bibi was released from prison.

Security officials quickly took her to a secret location amid rumours that she had fled the country. Pakistani officials dismissed reports of Asia fleeing the country.

The Italian government had said last week that Asia should leave her country because her life was in danger.

"I want women and children whose lives are at risk to be able to have a secure future, in our country or in other Western countries, so I will do everything humanly possible to guarantee that (for Bibi)," deputy prime minister Matteo Salvini had said.

"It is not permissible that in 2018 someone can risk losing their life for a&nbsp;hypothesis of blasphemy," Salvini added while asserting that it had nothing against the Pakistan government.

&nbsp;"The enemy is violence, extremism and fanaticism," he said.

(TLP) had called off the protests on November 3rd after striking a deal with the government to put Bibi on 'exit control list' barring her from leaving the country.

"There will be a war if they send Asia out of the country," TLP leader Khadim Hussain Rizvi said after the deal was reached with the government.

The Netherlands government announced today that it was shutting down its embassy in Pakistan due to security concerns. Due to circumstances beyond our control, the issuing of visa has been halted temporarily, the government informed in its website.

The Netherlands government announced today that it was shutting down its embassy in Pakistan due to security concerns. Due to circumstances beyond our control, the issuing of visa has been halted temporarily, the government informed in its website. The embassy won't be issuing any visa applications nor offer consular services, it said. A Pakistan interior ministry letter revealed that Tehreek-e-Labaik(TLP) planned to target Dutch ambassador Ardi Stoios-Bracken to "seek revenge for uploading blasphemous caricatures by great Wilders, Dutch Parliamentarian, on his personal account." The letter ordered a security survey of the area around the embassy and sought to reinforce fencing in the diplomatic enclave. The embassy move comes after Pakistani Christian Asia Bibi's lawyer Saiful Mulook fled to the Netherlands last week seeking temporary asylum after his client's conviction was overturned by the Pakistan Supreme Court. Asia was lodged in jail since 2010 after being convicted by a Pakistan court under blasphemy law but was set free by the country's top court leading to large-scale protests by the Islamists. Thousands of Islamists protested in Karachi last Thursday after Asia Bibi was released from prison. Security officials quickly took her to a secret location amid rumours that she had fled the country. Pakistani officials dismissed reports of Asia fleeing the country. The Italian government had said last week that Asia should leave her country because her life was in danger. "I want women and children whose lives are at risk to be able to have a secure future, in our country or in other Western countries, so I will do everything humanly possible to guarantee that (for Bibi)," deputy prime minister Matteo Salvini had said. "It is not permissible that in 2018 someone can risk losing their life for a hypothesis of blasphemy," Salvini added while asserting that it had nothing against the Pakistan government. "The enemy is violence, extremism and fanaticism," he said. (TLP) had called off the protests on November 3rd after striking a deal with the government to put Bibi on 'exit control list' barring her from leaving the country. "There will be a war if they send Asia out of the country," TLP leader Khadim Hussain Rizvi said after the deal was reached with the government.

The Netherlands shuts embassy in Pakistan over threat to Dutch ambassador

By Steve Pinkerton

The citizens of Ireland voted recently, in a nationwide referendum, to remove a clause from their constitution that had made blasphemy a criminal offence.

Ireland’s now-defunct Defamation Act of 2009 prohibited the “publication or utterance of blasphemous matter.” Just last year, in fact, Irish police opened a brief investigation into whether comedian Stephen Fry had broken the law when he described God as “capricious, mean-minded, stupid” and “an utter maniac” during a televised interview. The case was closed, however, as the police said they had been “unable to find a substantial number of outraged people.”

The overturning of Ireland’s blasphemy law stands in stark contrast to recent news out of Pakistan – where the release from prison of Asia Bibi, a Christian woman, accused of blasphemy, has led to widespread protests. In Indonesia, too, many people have been jailed for speaking irreverently against Islam.

Despite its recent defeat, Ireland’s 2009 blasphemy law is an important reminder that laws against blasphemy have hardly been unique to the Muslim world – even in the 21st century.

Understanding the Muslim world

As of 2014, according to the Pew Research Center, nearly one-fifth of European countries and a third of countries in the Americas, notably Canada, have laws against blasphemy.

In my research for a literary study of blasphemy, I found that these laws may differ in many respects from their more well-known counterparts in Muslim nations, but they also share some common features with them.

In particular, they’re all united in regarding blasphemy as a form of “injury” – even as they disagree about what, exactly, blasphemy injures.

In the Muslim world, such injured parties are often a lot easier to find. Cultural anthropologist Saba Mahmood said that many devout Muslims perceive blasphemy as an almost physical injury: an intolerable offence that hurts both God himself and the whole community of the faithful.

For Mahmood that perception was brought powerfully home in 2005, when a Danish newspaper published cartoons depicting the prophet Muhammad. Interviewing a number of Muslims at the time, Mahmood was “struck,” she wrote, “by the sense of personal loss” they conveyed. People she interviewed were very clear on this point:

“The idea that we should just get over this hurt makes me so mad.”

“I would have felt less wounded if the object of ridicule were my own parents.”

The intensity of this “hurt,” “wounding” and “ridicule” helps to explain how blasphemy can remain a capital offence in a theocratic state like Pakistan. The punishment is tailored to the enormity of the perceived crime.

Blasphemy and Christians

That may sound like a foreign concept to secular ears. The reality, though, is that most Western blasphemy laws are rooted in a similar logic of religious offence.

As historians like Leonard Levy and David Nash have documented, these laws – dating, mostly, from the 1200s to the early 1800s – were designed to protect Christian beliefs and practices from the sort of “hurt” and “ridicule” that animates Islamic blasphemy laws today. But as the West became increasingly secular, religious injury gradually lost much of its power to provoke. By the mid-20th century, most Western blasphemy laws had become virtually dead letters.

That’s certainly true of the US, where such laws remain “on the books” in six states but haven’t been invoked since at least the early 1970s. They’re now widely held to be nullified by the First Amendment.

Yet looking beyond the American context, one will find that blasphemy laws are hardly obsolete throughout the West. Instead, they’re acquiring new uses for the 21st century.

Religious offence in a secular world

Consider the case of a Danish man who was charged with blasphemy, in February 2017, for burning a Quran and for posting a video of the act online.

In the past, Denmark’s blasphemy law had only ever been enforced to punish anti-Christian expression. (It was last used in 1946.) Today it serves to highlight an ongoing trend: In an increasingly pluralist, multicultural West, blasphemy laws find fresh purpose in policing intolerance between religious communities.

In other words, the real question for the 21st century has not been whether blasphemy counts as a crime. Instead, it’s been about who, or what – God or the state, religion or pluralism – is the injured party. Instead of preventing injury to God, these laws now seek to prevent injury to the social fabric of avowedly secular states.

That’s true not only of the West’s centuries-old blasphemy laws but also of more recent ones. Ireland’s Defamation Act, for instance, targeted any person who “utters matter that is grossly abusive or insulting in relation to matters held sacred by any religion, thereby causing outrage among a substantial number of the adherents of that religion.”

With its emphasis on the “outrage” blasphemy may cause among “any religion,” the measure was clearly aimed less at protecting the sacred than at preventing intolerance among diverse religious groups.

The law itself caused outrage of a different sort, however. Advocacy organisations, such as Atheist Ireland, mounted fierce opposition to the law and to the example it set internationally. In late 2009, for instance, Pakistan borrowed the exact language of the Irish law in its own proposed statement on blasphemy to the United Nations’ Human Rights Council.

Thus, Atheist Ireland warned on its website that “The Islamic States can now point to a modern pluralist Western State passing a new blasphemy law in the 21st century.”

Blasphemy in modernity

That warning resonates with the common Western view of blasphemy as an antiquated concept, a medieval throwback with no relevance to “modern,” “developed” societies. Atheist Ireland’s chairperson, Michael Nugent, drew on this tradition when he touted the significance of the recent referendum victory:

“It means that we’ve got rid of a medieval crime from our constitution that should never have been there.”

As Columbia University professor Gauri Viswanathan puts it, blasphemy is often used “to separate cultures of modernity from those of premodernity.” Starting from the assumption that blasphemy can exist only in a backward society, critics point to blasphemy as evidence of the backwardness of entire religious cultures.

I would argue, however, that this Eurocentric view is growing increasingly difficult to sustain. If anything, blasphemy has in recent years enjoyed a resurgence in many corners of the supposedly secular West – including prosecutions in Austria, Finland, Germany, Greece, Switzerland and Turkey. Perhaps the fate of Ireland’s Defamation Act forecasts a broader reversal of that trend.

(Steve Pinkerton is Lecturer in English, Case Western Reserve University)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/blasphemy-law-is-repealed-in-ireland-enforced-in-pakistan-and-a-problem-in-many-christian-and-muslim-countries-106487">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

 
&nbsp;

By Steve Pinkerton The citizens of Ireland voted recently, in a nationwide referendum, to remove a clause from their constitution that had made blasphemy a criminal offence.

By Steve Pinkerton The citizens of Ireland voted recently, in a nationwide referendum, to remove a clause from their constitution that had made blasphemy a criminal offence. Ireland’s now-defunct Defamation Act of 2009 prohibited the “publication or utterance of blasphemous matter.” Just last year, in fact, Irish police opened a brief investigation into whether comedian Stephen Fry had broken the law when he described God as “capricious, mean-minded, stupid” and “an utter maniac” during a televised interview. The case was closed, however, as the police said they had been “unable to find a substantial number of outraged people.” The overturning of Ireland’s blasphemy law stands in stark contrast to recent news out of Pakistan – where the release from prison of Asia Bibi, a Christian woman, accused of blasphemy, has led to widespread protests. In Indonesia, too, many people have been jailed for speaking irreverently against Islam. Despite its recent defeat, Ireland’s 2009 blasphemy law is an important reminder that laws against blasphemy have hardly been unique to the Muslim world – even in the 21st century. Understanding the Muslim world As of 2014, according to the Pew Research Center, nearly one-fifth of European countries and a third of countries in the Americas, notably Canada, have laws against blasphemy. In my research for a literary study of blasphemy, I found that these laws may differ in many respects from their more well-known counterparts in Muslim nations, but they also share some common features with them. In particular, they’re all united in regarding blasphemy as a form of “injury” – even as they disagree about what, exactly, blasphemy injures. In the Muslim world, such injured parties are often a lot easier to find. Cultural anthropologist Saba Mahmood said that many devout Muslims perceive blasphemy as an almost physical injury: an intolerable offence that hurts both God himself and the whole community of the faithful. For Mahmood that perception was brought powerfully home in 2005, when a Danish newspaper published cartoons depicting the prophet Muhammad. Interviewing a number of Muslims at the time, Mahmood was “struck,” she wrote, “by the sense of personal loss” they conveyed. People she interviewed were very clear on this point: “The idea that we should just get over this hurt makes me so mad.” “I would have felt less wounded if the object of ridicule were my own parents.” The intensity of this “hurt,” “wounding” and “ridicule” helps to explain how blasphemy can remain a capital offence in a theocratic state like Pakistan. The punishment is tailored to the enormity of the perceived crime. Blasphemy and Christians That may sound like a foreign concept to secular ears. The reality, though, is that most Western blasphemy laws are rooted in a similar logic of religious offence. As historians like Leonard Levy and David Nash have documented, these laws – dating, mostly, from the 1200s to the early 1800s – were designed to protect Christian beliefs and practices from the sort of “hurt” and “ridicule” that animates Islamic blasphemy laws today. But as the West became increasingly secular, religious injury gradually lost much of its power to provoke. By the mid-20th century, most Western blasphemy laws had become virtually dead letters. That’s certainly true of the US, where such laws remain “on the books” in six states but haven’t been invoked since at least the early 1970s. They’re now widely held to be nullified by the First Amendment. Yet looking beyond the American context, one will find that blasphemy laws are hardly obsolete throughout the West. Instead, they’re acquiring new uses for the 21st century. Religious offence in a secular world Consider the case of a Danish man who was charged with blasphemy, in February 2017, for burning a Quran and for posting a video of the act online. In the past, Denmark’s blasphemy law had only ever been enforced to punish anti-Christian expression. (It was last used in 1946.) Today it serves to highlight an ongoing trend: In an increasingly pluralist, multicultural West, blasphemy laws find fresh purpose in policing intolerance between religious communities. In other words, the real question for the 21st century has not been whether blasphemy counts as a crime. Instead, it’s been about who, or what – God or the state, religion or pluralism – is the injured party. Instead of preventing injury to God, these laws now seek to prevent injury to the social fabric of avowedly secular states. That’s true not only of the West’s centuries-old blasphemy laws but also of more recent ones. Ireland’s Defamation Act, for instance, targeted any person who “utters matter that is grossly abusive or insulting in relation to matters held sacred by any religion, thereby causing outrage among a substantial number of the adherents of that religion.” With its emphasis on the “outrage” blasphemy may cause among “any religion,” the measure was clearly aimed less at protecting the sacred than at preventing intolerance among diverse religious groups. The law itself caused outrage of a different sort, however. Advocacy organisations, such as Atheist Ireland, mounted fierce opposition to the law and to the example it set internationally. In late 2009, for instance, Pakistan borrowed the exact language of the Irish law in its own proposed statement on blasphemy to the United Nations’ Human Rights Council. Thus, Atheist Ireland warned on its website that “The Islamic States can now point to a modern pluralist Western State passing a new blasphemy law in the 21st century.” Blasphemy in modernity That warning resonates with the common Western view of blasphemy as an antiquated concept, a medieval throwback with no relevance to “modern,” “developed” societies. Atheist Ireland’s chairperson, Michael Nugent, drew on this tradition when he touted the significance of the recent referendum victory: “It means that we’ve got rid of a medieval crime from our constitution that should never have been there.” As Columbia University professor Gauri Viswanathan puts it, blasphemy is often used “to separate cultures of modernity from those of premodernity.” Starting from the assumption that blasphemy can exist only in a backward society, critics point to blasphemy as evidence of the backwardness of entire religious cultures. I would argue, however, that this Eurocentric view is growing increasingly difficult to sustain. If anything, blasphemy has in recent years enjoyed a resurgence in many corners of the supposedly secular West – including prosecutions in Austria, Finland, Germany, Greece, Switzerland and Turkey. Perhaps the fate of Ireland’s Defamation Act forecasts a broader reversal of that trend. (Steve Pinkerton is Lecturer in English, Case Western Reserve University) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Blasphemy law is repealed in Ireland, enforced in Pakistan - and a problem in many other countries

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