<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-islamists-block-roads-to-protest-acquittal-of-asia-bibi-174979">Asia Bibi: Pakistan Islamists block roads to protest </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-islamists-block-roads-to-protest-acquittal-of-asia-bibi-174979">acquittal</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-islamists-block-roads-to-protest-acquittal-of-asia-bibi-174979"> of Christian woman over blasphemy allegations</a>

Pakistan's ultra-Islamist party&nbsp;blocked roads in major cities for a third day on Friday in&nbsp;protest against the acquittal of a Christian woman&nbsp;Asia Bibi on death row for blasphemy allegations.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-will-move-its-embassy-in-israel-to-jerusalem-president-elect-jair-bolsonaro-174991">Brazil will move its embassy in Israel to Jerusalem: President-elect Jair Bolsonaro</a>

Brazil will move its embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, far-right President-elect Jair Bolsonaro said Thursday, making the Latin American giant the largest country after the United States to make the controversial switch.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-state-dept-spokeswoman-heather-nauert-could-be-next-un-envoy-donald-trump-174983">US State Dept spokeswoman Heather Nauert could be next UN envoy: Trump</a>

US President Donald Trump on Thursday confirmed reports that State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert is under "serious consideration" to become the next US ambassador to the United Nations.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-moves-to-crack-down-on-asylum-seekers-ahead-of-us-elections-174989">Trump moves to crack down on asylum seekers ahead of US elections</a>

President Donald Trump said on Thursday he was finalising a plan that would require&nbsp;immigrants seeking asylum&nbsp;in the United States to approach a legal port of entry, pushing a hard line on immigration ahead of next week's congressional elections.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/apple-quarterly-profit-leaps-but-shares-slip-on-outlook-174974">Apple quarterly profit leaps but shares slip on weaker-than-expected iPhone sales</a>

Apple on Thursday reported that its profit leapt in the recently ended quarter, but shares slid on weaker-than-expected iPhone sales and the forecast going into the year-end holiday.

Asia Bibi: Pakistan Islamists block roads to protest acquittal of Christian woman over blasphemy allegations Pakistan's ultra-Islamist party blocked roads in major cities for a third day on Friday in protest against the acquittal of a Christian woman Asia Bibi on death row for blasphemy allegations.

Asia Bibi: Pakistan Islamists block roads to protest acquittal of Christian woman over blasphemy allegations Pakistan's ultra-Islamist party blocked roads in major cities for a third day on Friday in protest against the acquittal of a Christian woman Asia Bibi on death row for blasphemy allegations. Brazil will move its embassy in Israel to Jerusalem: President-elect Jair Bolsonaro Brazil will move its embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, far-right President-elect Jair Bolsonaro said Thursday, making the Latin American giant the largest country after the United States to make the controversial switch. US State Dept spokeswoman Heather Nauert could be next UN envoy: Trump US President Donald Trump on Thursday confirmed reports that State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert is under "serious consideration" to become the next US ambassador to the United Nations. Trump moves to crack down on asylum seekers ahead of US elections President Donald Trump said on Thursday he was finalising a plan that would require immigrants seeking asylum in the United States to approach a legal port of entry, pushing a hard line on immigration ahead of next week's congressional elections. Apple quarterly profit leaps but shares slip on weaker-than-expected iPhone sales Apple on Thursday reported that its profit leapt in the recently ended quarter, but shares slid on weaker-than-expected iPhone sales and the forecast going into the year-end holiday.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Pakistan authorities on Friday suspended mobile phone networks across major cities amid <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-islamists-block-roads-to-protest-acquittal-of-asia-bibi-174979">protests over the acquittal of a Christian woman facing the death penalty</a> for blasphemy, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

Unrest gripped the country for the third consecutive day as Islamist groups protested the Supreme Court's order in favour of Asia Bibi, a mother of five, ordering her freed.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Pakistan Army on Friday called for an end to the ongoing standoff staged by Islamist hardliners and asked the protesters not to test its patience.&nbsp;

Army spokesman Major General Asif Ghafoor told state-run channel PTV that a government team, including a representative of ISI was holding talks with the protestors.

"We have shown patience. We have no link with the case (of Bibi) but we want that justice should prevail. We also want that the Army should not be forced to take action (against protestors) which it is empowered under the law to take," he said.

So far there were no reports about the success of negotiations despite indications by the officials that a breakthrough might be reached, news agency PTI reported.

The apex court's judgement, which was pronounced last Wednesday, triggered protests across Pakistan with protestors led by Islamic political party Tehreek-i-Labaik Pakistan and other groups blocking major highways and roads in different parts of the country.

Some of the major Pakistani cities, like Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi among others, were affected by the protests and witnessed roadblocks over past three days.

In Karachi alone, roads and junctions were blocked at 22 locations in the six districts of the city.

The education institutions were closed in Punjab, while private schools were closed in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa provinces as well as in cities like Karachi and Islamabad. Many universities across Pakistan announced the cancellation of papers due to the ongoing tense situation, PTI reported.

"There is a disruption in public transport due to which labourers are unable to reach their workplaces. Truckers are also reluctant to carry goods which have led to production losses and shipment delays," an industry leader was quoted by PTI.

Despite section 144 in force, petrol pumps, shopping centres and markets remained closed across various cities as protesters staged sit-ins at various points.

Pakistan's Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Fawad Hussain on Friday took to Twitter stating that negotiations with the protesters continue and that there is no cause to panic.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

 
,

Pakistan authorities on Friday suspended mobile phone networks across major cities amid protests over the acquittal of a Christian woman facing the death penalty for blasphemy, news agency Reuters reported.

Pakistan authorities on Friday suspended mobile phone networks across major cities amid protests over the acquittal of a Christian woman facing the death penalty for blasphemy, news agency Reuters reported. Unrest gripped the country for the third consecutive day as Islamist groups protested the Supreme Court's order in favour of Asia Bibi, a mother of five, ordering her freed. Meanwhile, Pakistan Army on Friday called for an end to the ongoing standoff staged by Islamist hardliners and asked the protesters not to test its patience. Army spokesman Major General Asif Ghafoor told state-run channel PTV that a government team, including a representative of ISI was holding talks with the protestors. "We have shown patience. We have no link with the case (of Bibi) but we want that justice should prevail. We also want that the Army should not be forced to take action (against protestors) which it is empowered under the law to take," he said. So far there were no reports about the success of negotiations despite indications by the officials that a breakthrough might be reached, news agency PTI reported. The apex court's judgement, which was pronounced last Wednesday, triggered protests across Pakistan with protestors led by Islamic political party Tehreek-i-Labaik Pakistan and other groups blocking major highways and roads in different parts of the country. Some of the major Pakistani cities, like Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi among others, were affected by the protests and witnessed roadblocks over past three days. In Karachi alone, roads and junctions were blocked at 22 locations in the six districts of the city. The education institutions were closed in Punjab, while private schools were closed in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa provinces as well as in cities like Karachi and Islamabad. Many universities across Pakistan announced the cancellation of papers due to the ongoing tense situation, PTI reported. "There is a disruption in public transport due to which labourers are unable to reach their workplaces. Truckers are also reluctant to carry goods which have led to production losses and shipment delays," an industry leader was quoted by PTI. Despite section 144 in force, petrol pumps, shopping centres and markets remained closed across various cities as protesters staged sit-ins at various points. Pakistan's Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Fawad Hussain on Friday took to Twitter stating that negotiations with the protesters continue and that there is no cause to panic. (With inputs from agencies) ,

Pakistan suspends phone networks in major cities as protests over Asia Bibi's acquittal enter third day

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-suspends-phone-networks-in-major-cities-as-islamists-protests-over-asia-bibis-acquittal-enter-third-day-175135">Pakistan suspends phone networks in major cities as protests over Asia Bibi's acquittal enter </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-suspends-phone-networks-in-major-cities-as-islamists-protests-over-asia-bibis-acquittal-enter-third-day-175135">third</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-suspends-phone-networks-in-major-cities-as-islamists-protests-over-asia-bibis-acquittal-enter-third-day-175135"> day</a>

Pakistan authorities on Friday suspended mobile phone networks across major cities amid protests over the acquittal of a Christian woman facing the death penalty for blasphemy, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/birthright-citizenship-has-created-an-entire-industry-called-birth-tourism-says-trump-at-election-rally-175102">Birthright citizenship has created an entire industry, called birth tourism, says Trump at </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/birthright-citizenship-has-created-an-entire-industry-called-birth-tourism-says-trump-at-election-rally-175102">election</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/birthright-citizenship-has-created-an-entire-industry-called-birth-tourism-says-trump-at-election-rally-175102"> rally</a>

Ahead of the midterm elections on November 6th, President Trump at a rally in Columbia, Missouri said birthright citizenship has created an "entire industry".

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-give-iran-oil-sanctions-waiver-to-eight-countries-including-india-south-korea-japan-report-175107">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-give-iran-oil-sanctions-waiver-to-eight-countries-including-india-south-korea-japan-report-175107"> to give Iran oil sanctions waiver to eight countries, including India, South Korea &amp; Japan: Report</a>

The US government has agreed to let eight countries, including close allies South Korea and Japan, as well as India, keep buying Iranian oil after it reimposes sanctions on Tehran next week, Bloomberg cited a US official as saying.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/jamal-khashoggis-body-was-dissolved-after-murder-erdogan-advisor-175083">Jamal Khashoggi's body was 'dissolved' after </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/jamal-khashoggis-body-was-dissolved-after-murder-erdogan-advisor-175083">murder</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/jamal-khashoggis-body-was-dissolved-after-murder-erdogan-advisor-175083">: Erdogan advisor</a>

The body of journalist Jamal Khashoggi was "dissolved" after he was murdered and dismembered in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul a month ago, an advisor to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Friday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/willing-to-work-with-pm-to-build-new-era-of-china-pakistan-destiny-xi-jinping-to-imran-khan-175091">Willing to work together to build </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/willing-to-work-with-pm-to-build-new-era-of-china-pakistan-destiny-xi-jinping-to-imran-khan-175091">new</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/willing-to-work-with-pm-to-build-new-era-of-china-pakistan-destiny-xi-jinping-to-imran-khan-175091"> era of China-Pakistan destiny: Xi Jinping to Imran Khan</a>

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is currently on a five-day official visit to China, met with Chinese President Xi Jinping earlier in the day and discussed his country's "very difficult" economic situation, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Pakistan suspends phone networks in major cities as protests over Asia Bibi's acquittal enter third day Pakistan authorities on Friday suspended mobile phone networks across major cities amid protests over the acquittal of a Christian woman facing the death penalty for blasphemy, news agency Reuters reported.

Pakistan suspends phone networks in major cities as protests over Asia Bibi's acquittal enter third day Pakistan authorities on Friday suspended mobile phone networks across major cities amid protests over the acquittal of a Christian woman facing the death penalty for blasphemy, news agency Reuters reported. Birthright citizenship has created an entire industry, called birth tourism, says Trump at election rally Ahead of the midterm elections on November 6th, President Trump at a rally in Columbia, Missouri said birthright citizenship has created an "entire industry". US to give Iran oil sanctions waiver to eight countries, including India, South Korea & Japan: Report The US government has agreed to let eight countries, including close allies South Korea and Japan, as well as India, keep buying Iranian oil after it reimposes sanctions on Tehran next week, Bloomberg cited a US official as saying. Jamal Khashoggi's body was 'dissolved' after murder: Erdogan advisor The body of journalist Jamal Khashoggi was "dissolved" after he was murdered and dismembered in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul a month ago, an advisor to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Friday. Willing to work together to build new era of China-Pakistan destiny: Xi Jinping to Imran Khan Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is currently on a five-day official visit to China, met with Chinese President Xi Jinping earlier in the day and discussed his country's "very difficult" economic situation, news agency Reuters reported.

Pakistan is unravelling. Protests have erupted like a rash. Hardliners are baying for blood. Their target is a Christian woman. Asia Bibi spent nine years in jail, on death row over a cup of water. She was charged under the draconian blasphemy law. The Supreme Court has commuted the death sentence. But the darbar-e-awaam won't let her live. They want her hanged.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
And they're gunning for everyone in the way.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The Tehreek e Labaik is openly asking soldiers to revolt, calling into question the suitability of an Ahmadi like Gen Bajwa to head the Pakistani armed forces. They've threatened the Supreme Court judges, forcing them to justify their order. They're mighty upset with Prime Minister Imran Khan who warned them against protesting and promptly flew to Beijing.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
None of this is very surprising, given that it's happening in Pakistan. What's surprising is the certificate of merit being handed out to those in the line of fire. The judiciary has been commended as "bold". The Prime Minister is being congratulated for "displaying political courage." It's the same judiciary that has been dragging its feet on every terror case including 26/11. This is the same Imran Khan who orchestrated crippling protests against Nawaz Sharif. The same man who repeatedly and publicly endorsed the blasphemy law to pander to a section of the electorate. Today he's become the shining beacon of political uprightness. As for the army, the chickens have come home to roost. The fundamentalists they gave teeth to, are now biting them. &nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The public challenge being issued by the protestors is limiting the maneuverability of those being challenged. They have no choice but to respond with tough words. Tough action may follow, if they have any spine left. But these won't be guided by goodness. The army, the courts and the government in Pakistan are making a virtue out of necessity. 
&nbsp; 
Asia Bibi doesn't deserve this persecution. Just as those being projected as her "protectors" don't deserve any praise. By doing away with her death sentence, they're buying a new lease of life for themselves. &nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Pakistan is unravelling. Protests have erupted like a rash. Hardliners are baying for blood. Their target is a Christian woman. Asia Bibi spent nine years in jail, on death row over a cup of water.

Pakistan is unravelling. Protests have erupted like a rash. Hardliners are baying for blood. Their target is a Christian woman. Asia Bibi spent nine years in jail, on death row over a cup of water. She was charged under the draconian blasphemy law. The Supreme Court has commuted the death sentence. But the darbar-e-awaam won't let her live. They want her hanged. And they're gunning for everyone in the way. The Tehreek e Labaik is openly asking soldiers to revolt, calling into question the suitability of an Ahmadi like Gen Bajwa to head the Pakistani armed forces. They've threatened the Supreme Court judges, forcing them to justify their order. They're mighty upset with Prime Minister Imran Khan who warned them against protesting and promptly flew to Beijing. None of this is very surprising, given that it's happening in Pakistan. What's surprising is the certificate of merit being handed out to those in the line of fire. The judiciary has been commended as "bold". The Prime Minister is being congratulated for "displaying political courage." It's the same judiciary that has been dragging its feet on every terror case including 26/11. This is the same Imran Khan who orchestrated crippling protests against Nawaz Sharif. The same man who repeatedly and publicly endorsed the blasphemy law to pander to a section of the electorate. Today he's become the shining beacon of political uprightness. As for the army, the chickens have come home to roost. The fundamentalists they gave teeth to, are now biting them. The public challenge being issued by the protestors is limiting the maneuverability of those being challenged. They have no choice but to respond with tough words. Tough action may follow, if they have any spine left. But these won't be guided by goodness. The army, the courts and the government in Pakistan are making a virtue out of necessity. Asia Bibi doesn't deserve this persecution. Just as those being projected as her "protectors" don't deserve any praise. By doing away with her death sentence, they're buying a new lease of life for themselves. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Why Asia Bibi's 'protectors' deserve no praise

Amid protests over Asia Bibi's acquittal in blasphemy allegations in Pakistan, a group of pilgrims from England are stranded in the country,&nbsp;unable to leave.

About 70 Sikh pilgrims from England have been rescued by Pakistani security forces. However, they were stuck between Lahore and Hasan Abdal town in Punjab province, according to report.

Hasan Abdal is famous for the Gurdwara Panja Sahib, the shrine is considered to be particularly important to Sikhs.

To avoid any untoward incident, two helicopters have now shifted the pilgrims to Lahore under tight security cover, the report added.

Amid protests over Asia Bibi's acquittal in blasphemy allegations in Pakistan, a group of pilgrims from England are stranded in the country, unable to leave. About 70 Sikh pilgrims from England have been rescued by Pakistani security forces.

Amid protests over Asia Bibi's acquittal in blasphemy allegations in Pakistan, a group of pilgrims from England are stranded in the country, unable to leave. About 70 Sikh pilgrims from England have been rescued by Pakistani security forces. However, they were stuck between Lahore and Hasan Abdal town in Punjab province, according to report. Hasan Abdal is famous for the Gurdwara Panja Sahib, the shrine is considered to be particularly important to Sikhs. To avoid any untoward incident, two helicopters have now shifted the pilgrims to Lahore under tight security cover, the report added.

70 Sikh pilgrims from England stranded in Pakistan amid protest over Asia Bibi's acquittal

Talking tough, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan Wednesday told hardliners not to "confront the State" and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistani-islamist-party-calls-for-death-of-judges-who-freed-christian-woman-sentenced-for-blasphemy-174627">refrain from vandalism</a> after the Supreme Court <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-supreme-court-acquits-asia-bibi-of-blasphemy-charges-174536">acquitted a Christian woman sentenced to death</a> for committing blasphemy.

Prime Minister Khan addressed the nation through a video message and his address was solely focused on the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asia-bibi-the-first-pakistani-woman-to-be-sentenced-to-death-for-blasphemy-174587"> Asia Bibi</a> verdict.

Bibi, a 47-year-old mother of four, who was on a death row for eight years for blasphemy, was acquitted by the apex court in a landmark verdict which evoked protests, death threats from hardline groups and cheers from human rights advocates.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/how-asia-bibi-was-convicted-in-blasphemey-case-a-timeline-174662">Timeline: How was Asia Bibi convicted in Blasphemy case</a>

"I ask these elements (protesters) to avoid confronting the State. But if they opted to do so, the State will fulfill its responsibilities," Khan said.

"We will protect life and property of people...We will not let them (protesters) involve in vandalism or close down the roads," he said, referring to protesters blocking a highway linking the capital Islamabad with garrison city of Rawalpindi.

Many parts of Karachi were paralysed due to the protests and most of the main roads were shut down by the protesters who are burning tyres and pelting stones at vehicles.

Khan appealed to the public to remain calm and refrain from joining those trying to create law and order problem in the name of Islam.

The Prime Minister said that he was forced to give the address after the reaction by protesters against the verdict and the kind of language they were using against State institutions.

Khan also flayed a video clip of a leader of protesters on social media in which he said that the judges who gave the verdict were liable to murder.

"How a State can function in such circumstances...Those involved in this are not doing any service to Islam. They are in fact enemies of Islam," Khan said. 
Referring to the protesters who have disrupted routine life across the country, he said: "If the Supreme Court does not issue a verdict according to their wishes, will they come out on the roads?"

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asia-bibi-is-free-but-minorities-live-in-fear-in-pakistan-174584">Asia Bibi is free, but minorities live in fear in Pakistan</a>

The Prime Minister also said Pakistan was created in the name of Islam and no law can be made against the teachings of Islam.

He said the verdict was issued in the light of the Constitution of the country which is also based on Islam.

He said the government was working hard to improve the economy and the protesters were creating hurdles to get political mileage out of the verdict.

"We are already facing such tough economic hurdles. We have yet to take a day off... We are struggling continuously to uplift the people [and] to improve the conditions of the underprivileged," he said.

"The people are to bear the brunt of this. The labours who are reliant on daily wages... How will they survive?" he asked.

Bibi was accused of committing blasphemy in 2009.

She was convicted by the trial court in 2010 after being accused of insulting Islam in a row with her neighbours. Her death sentence was maintained by the Lahore High Court in 2014.

She always maintained her innocence, but has spent most of the past eight years in solitary confinement.

She appealed against the conviction in the Supreme Court, which for the first time heard the case in July 2015.

Bibi was the first woman who was given death sentence under the blasphemy laws.

According to officials, Bibi might be flown out of Pakistan due to the threat to her life.

It is not clear where she will go as several countries, including Canada, have offered asylum to her.

Talking tough, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan Wednesday told hardliners not to "confront the State" and refrain from vandalism after the Supreme Court acquitted a Christian woman sentenced to death for committing blasphemy.

Talking tough, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan Wednesday told hardliners not to "confront the State" and refrain from vandalism after the Supreme Court acquitted a Christian woman sentenced to death for committing blasphemy. Prime Minister Khan addressed the nation through a video message and his address was solely focused on the Asia Bibi verdict. Bibi, a 47-year-old mother of four, who was on a death row for eight years for blasphemy, was acquitted by the apex court in a landmark verdict which evoked protests, death threats from hardline groups and cheers from human rights advocates. Timeline: How was Asia Bibi convicted in Blasphemy case "I ask these elements (protesters) to avoid confronting the State. But if they opted to do so, the State will fulfill its responsibilities," Khan said. "We will protect life and property of people...We will not let them (protesters) involve in vandalism or close down the roads," he said, referring to protesters blocking a highway linking the capital Islamabad with garrison city of Rawalpindi. Many parts of Karachi were paralysed due to the protests and most of the main roads were shut down by the protesters who are burning tyres and pelting stones at vehicles. Khan appealed to the public to remain calm and refrain from joining those trying to create law and order problem in the name of Islam. The Prime Minister said that he was forced to give the address after the reaction by protesters against the verdict and the kind of language they were using against State institutions. Khan also flayed a video clip of a leader of protesters on social media in which he said that the judges who gave the verdict were liable to murder. "How a State can function in such circumstances...Those involved in this are not doing any service to Islam. They are in fact enemies of Islam," Khan said. Referring to the protesters who have disrupted routine life across the country, he said: "If the Supreme Court does not issue a verdict according to their wishes, will they come out on the roads?" Also read: Asia Bibi is free, but minorities live in fear in Pakistan The Prime Minister also said Pakistan was created in the name of Islam and no law can be made against the teachings of Islam. He said the verdict was issued in the light of the Constitution of the country which is also based on Islam. He said the government was working hard to improve the economy and the protesters were creating hurdles to get political mileage out of the verdict. "We are already facing such tough economic hurdles. We have yet to take a day off... We are struggling continuously to uplift the people [and] to improve the conditions of the underprivileged," he said. "The people are to bear the brunt of this. The labours who are reliant on daily wages... How will they survive?" he asked. Bibi was accused of committing blasphemy in 2009. She was convicted by the trial court in 2010 after being accused of insulting Islam in a row with her neighbours. Her death sentence was maintained by the Lahore High Court in 2014. She always maintained her innocence, but has spent most of the past eight years in solitary confinement. She appealed against the conviction in the Supreme Court, which for the first time heard the case in July 2015. Bibi was the first woman who was given death sentence under the blasphemy laws. According to officials, Bibi might be flown out of Pakistan due to the threat to her life. It is not clear where she will go as several countries, including Canada, have offered asylum to her.

Don't confront the State: Imran Khan warns Bibi verdict protesters

Watch: WION Gravitas,1st November, 2018

After the landmark supreme court verdict in Pakistan, acquitting Asia Bibi in the blasphemy case, her lawyer on Thursday has spoken out for the first time.&nbsp;

Saif-ul-Mulook, Asia Bibi's defence lawyer has said that he regrets nothing and will continue his fight against intolerance.&nbsp;

"I don't regret at least, I think it better to die as a brave and strong man than to die as a mouse and fearful person. The religious groups have announced that if judges release her, we will hold our own private court and we will sentence her to death. I mean, thereafter this is immaterial to comment that if she lives here, she will be safe or not," said Saif-ul-Mulook.

"I think I have absolutely now no safety, no security and I am the easiest target, soft target for anybody because I move freely, I go to my office, I go to my courts and anybody can kill me," he added.

Asiya Bibi, a Christian woman, was convicted in a blasphemy case for her alleged comments against Mohammed Prophet during an argument with three Muslim women.

Bibi had categorically denied all the allegations against her.

On Wednesday, Soon after the Supreme Court of Pakistan acquitted Asiya Bibi in the blasphemy case against her, scores of people took to streets and launched massive protests opposing the verdict.

According to Samaa TV, protestors, including workers of political parties, gathered outside the Punjab Assembly after pronouncement of the verdict.

The protests also witnessed violent outbursts as agitators burned tyres in areas of Karachi.

Saif-ul-Mulook's fight against extremism spans the other legal work which he has undertaken. In 2011, he was the lead prosecutor in the case of the assassination of the former Punjab governor Salman Taseer, who was a prominent critic of Pakistan's blasphemy law.

After the landmark supreme court verdict in Pakistan, acquitting Asia Bibi in the blasphemy case, her lawyer on Thursday has spoken out for the first time. Saif-ul-Mulook, Asia Bibi's defence lawyer has said that he regrets nothing and will continue his fight against intolerance.

After the landmark supreme court verdict in Pakistan, acquitting Asia Bibi in the blasphemy case, her lawyer on Thursday has spoken out for the first time. Saif-ul-Mulook, Asia Bibi's defence lawyer has said that he regrets nothing and will continue his fight against intolerance. "I don't regret at least, I think it better to die as a brave and strong man than to die as a mouse and fearful person. The religious groups have announced that if judges release her, we will hold our own private court and we will sentence her to death. I mean, thereafter this is immaterial to comment that if she lives here, she will be safe or not," said Saif-ul-Mulook. "I think I have absolutely now no safety, no security and I am the easiest target, soft target for anybody because I move freely, I go to my office, I go to my courts and anybody can kill me," he added. Asiya Bibi, a Christian woman, was convicted in a blasphemy case for her alleged comments against Mohammed Prophet during an argument with three Muslim women. Bibi had categorically denied all the allegations against her. On Wednesday, Soon after the Supreme Court of Pakistan acquitted Asiya Bibi in the blasphemy case against her, scores of people took to streets and launched massive protests opposing the verdict. According to Samaa TV, protestors, including workers of political parties, gathered outside the Punjab Assembly after pronouncement of the verdict. The protests also witnessed violent outbursts as agitators burned tyres in areas of Karachi. Saif-ul-Mulook's fight against extremism spans the other legal work which he has undertaken. In 2011, he was the lead prosecutor in the case of the assassination of the former Punjab governor Salman Taseer, who was a prominent critic of Pakistan's blasphemy law.

I fear for my life, anybody can kill me, says Asia Bibi's lawyer Saif-ul-Mulook

WION Gravitas: Protests erupt across Pakistan against Asia Bibi verdict

Breaking News: Protester files PIL against Asia Bibi verdict

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan backed Supreme Court acquitting <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/how-asia-bibi-was-convicted-in-blasphemey-case-a-timeline-174662">Asia Bibi in the blasphemy case</a> as he addressed the country on Wednesday. He also warned the agitators&nbsp;and called for calm after protests erupted in Pakistan following the verdict.

A three-judge bench had acquitted and ordered the release of Asia Bibi, a Christian woman who was earlier sentenced to death on blasphemy charges.

Imran Khan in his address said:&nbsp;"I'm here only because a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-supreme-court-acquits-asia-bibi-of-blasphemy-charges-174536">Supreme Court verdict </a>was announced today and the way a small section reacted to it and the language that they used...I'm forced to address you," local media quoted him as saying.

He then upheld the top court's verdict, saying that the decision of the judges was&nbsp;according to&nbsp;the constitution&nbsp;and "Pakistan's constitution according to the teachings of Islam."

He added that the revolt against the chief justice and army chief was&nbsp;"unacceptable".

"Saying that the judges of the Supreme Court are 'Wajib ul Qatl' (Worthy of death)&nbsp;and terming the army chief as&nbsp;'non-Muslim', and calling for a revolt against the chief justice and army chief...This is unacceptable," Geo TV&nbsp;quoted the Pakistan prime minister&nbsp;as saying.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asia-bibi-is-free-but-minorities-live-in-fear-in-pakistan-174584">Asia Bibi is free, but minorities live in fear in Pakistan</a>

Demonstrators had gathered in Lahore today to protest against Pakistan's Supreme Court decision to free a Christian woman from death sentence for blasphemy against Islam and overturned her conviction.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistani-islamists-warn-of-terrible-consequences-over-blasphemy-appeal-170192">Supporters of Islamist</a> political party Tehreek-e-Labaik (TLP), which was founded to support blasphemy laws, immediately condemned the ruling and blocked roads in major cities and pelted police with stones in the eastern city of Lahore.

TLP co-founder Muhammad Afzal Qadri said during the protest in Lahore that it would be difficult for the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistani-islamist-party-calls-for-death-of-judges-who-freed-christian-woman-sentenced-for-blasphemy-174627">three judges on the panel to leave their homes or go to their offices</a> as "by tonight the entire country will be sealed."

He also called for the ouster of the new government of Prime Minister Imran Khan and for army officers to rise up against powerful military chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa.

Asia Bibi, a mother of four, had been living on death row since 2010 when she became the first woman to be sentenced to death by hanging under Pakistan's blasphemy laws, which critics say are too harsh and often misused.

She was condemned for allegedly making derogatory remarks about Islam after neighbours allegedly objected to her drinking water from their glass because she was not Muslim.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Reuters)

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan backed Supreme Court acquitting Asia Bibi in the blasphemy case as he addressed the country on Wednesday. He also warned the agitators and called for calm after protests erupted in Pakistan following the verdict.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan backed Supreme Court acquitting Asia Bibi in the blasphemy case as he addressed the country on Wednesday. He also warned the agitators and called for calm after protests erupted in Pakistan following the verdict. A three-judge bench had acquitted and ordered the release of Asia Bibi, a Christian woman who was earlier sentenced to death on blasphemy charges. Imran Khan in his address said: "I'm here only because a Supreme Court verdict was announced today and the way a small section reacted to it and the language that they used...I'm forced to address you," local media quoted him as saying. He then upheld the top court's verdict, saying that the decision of the judges was according to the constitution and "Pakistan's constitution according to the teachings of Islam." He added that the revolt against the chief justice and army chief was "unacceptable". "Saying that the judges of the Supreme Court are 'Wajib ul Qatl' (Worthy of death) and terming the army chief as 'non-Muslim', and calling for a revolt against the chief justice and army chief...This is unacceptable," Geo TV quoted the Pakistan prime minister as saying. Also read: Asia Bibi is free, but minorities live in fear in Pakistan Demonstrators had gathered in Lahore today to protest against Pakistan's Supreme Court decision to free a Christian woman from death sentence for blasphemy against Islam and overturned her conviction. Supporters of Islamist political party Tehreek-e-Labaik (TLP), which was founded to support blasphemy laws, immediately condemned the ruling and blocked roads in major cities and pelted police with stones in the eastern city of Lahore. TLP co-founder Muhammad Afzal Qadri said during the protest in Lahore that it would be difficult for the three judges on the panel to leave their homes or go to their offices as "by tonight the entire country will be sealed." He also called for the ouster of the new government of Prime Minister Imran Khan and for army officers to rise up against powerful military chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa. Asia Bibi, a mother of four, had been living on death row since 2010 when she became the first woman to be sentenced to death by hanging under Pakistan's blasphemy laws, which critics say are too harsh and often misused. She was condemned for allegedly making derogatory remarks about Islam after neighbours allegedly objected to her drinking water from their glass because she was not Muslim. (With inputs from Reuters)

Revolt against chief justice, army chief unacceptable, says PM Imran Khan

Pakistan's Imran Khan won praise for his stance against religious hardliners Thursday, as demonstrators blocked major roads to protest the Supreme Court's overturning of a blasphemy conviction.

Khan has vowed to confront extremists who called for the assassination of the country’s Supreme Court justices, and for mutiny against the army’s top brass, after the acquittal of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/how-asia-bibi-was-convicted-in-blasphemey-case-a-timeline-174662">Asia Bibi</a>, a Christian woman on death row for blasphemy.

"We will protect people's properties and lives, we will not allow any sabotage," Khan said in a nationally televised address Wednesday.

Blasphemy is a massively inflammatory charge in Muslim-majority Pakistan, where even unproven allegations of insulting Islam and its Prophet Mohammed can provoke death at the hands of vigilantes.

Khan's speech drew praise across social media, including from those formerly critical of the prime minister.&nbsp;

Prominent journalist Mosharraf Zaidi hailed a "remarkable speech" and a column in the English daily Dawn said Khan had taken "an unequivocal and strong line against religious bigotry and hatred that we have not seen taken in almost two decades".

"Prime Minister Imran Khan was admirably forthright in condemning those who believe violence is the appropriate response to a judicial verdict with which they disagree," said the English-language The News, which is often a critic of the PM.

Others, however, highlighted the prime minister's mixed record on addressing the controversy around blasphemy issues in Pakistan.&nbsp;

"Wish Imran khan had delivered similar speech in the last Faizabad dharna," tweeted Balal Haider, referring to Khan's silence during similar anti-blasphemy protests last year.&nbsp;

There was no indication Thursday that the authorities were preparing to clear the small pockets of protesters that continue to block major thoroughfares in the cities of Lahore, Islamabad and Karachi.&nbsp;

The demonstrations are being largely led by the Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan (TLP) party, which is known for its hardline stance on blasphemy issues.

TLP, founded in 2015, blockaded the capital Islamabad for several weeks last year calling for stricter enforcement of Pakistan's controversial blasphemy laws.

That protest forced the resignation of the federal law minister and paved the way for the group to poll more than 2.23 million votes in the July 25 general election, in what analysts called a "surprisingly" rapid rise.

The party's chief Khadim Hussain Rizvi has also vowed to "wipe Holland off the face of the earth" over cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed if TLP were able to secure power of the nuclear-armed country.

The protests come as Khan prepares to depart for a four-day trip to China, where he will likely seek financial assistance from Beijing to shore up the country’s deteriorating finances.

Pakistan's Imran Khan won praise for his stance against religious hardliners Thursday, as demonstrators blocked major roads to protest the Supreme Court's overturning of a blasphemy conviction.

Pakistan's Imran Khan won praise for his stance against religious hardliners Thursday, as demonstrators blocked major roads to protest the Supreme Court's overturning of a blasphemy conviction. Khan has vowed to confront extremists who called for the assassination of the country’s Supreme Court justices, and for mutiny against the army’s top brass, after the acquittal of Asia Bibi, a Christian woman on death row for blasphemy. "We will protect people's properties and lives, we will not allow any sabotage," Khan said in a nationally televised address Wednesday. Blasphemy is a massively inflammatory charge in Muslim-majority Pakistan, where even unproven allegations of insulting Islam and its Prophet Mohammed can provoke death at the hands of vigilantes. Khan's speech drew praise across social media, including from those formerly critical of the prime minister. Prominent journalist Mosharraf Zaidi hailed a "remarkable speech" and a column in the English daily Dawn said Khan had taken "an unequivocal and strong line against religious bigotry and hatred that we have not seen taken in almost two decades". "Prime Minister Imran Khan was admirably forthright in condemning those who believe violence is the appropriate response to a judicial verdict with which they disagree," said the English-language The News, which is often a critic of the PM. Others, however, highlighted the prime minister's mixed record on addressing the controversy around blasphemy issues in Pakistan. "Wish Imran khan had delivered similar speech in the last Faizabad dharna," tweeted Balal Haider, referring to Khan's silence during similar anti-blasphemy protests last year. There was no indication Thursday that the authorities were preparing to clear the small pockets of protesters that continue to block major thoroughfares in the cities of Lahore, Islamabad and Karachi. The demonstrations are being largely led by the Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan (TLP) party, which is known for its hardline stance on blasphemy issues. TLP, founded in 2015, blockaded the capital Islamabad for several weeks last year calling for stricter enforcement of Pakistan's controversial blasphemy laws. That protest forced the resignation of the federal law minister and paved the way for the group to poll more than 2.23 million votes in the July 25 general election, in what analysts called a "surprisingly" rapid rise. The party's chief Khadim Hussain Rizvi has also vowed to "wipe Holland off the face of the earth" over cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed if TLP were able to secure power of the nuclear-armed country. The protests come as Khan prepares to depart for a four-day trip to China, where he will likely seek financial assistance from Beijing to shore up the country’s deteriorating finances.

Pakistan PM praised for stand against hardliners, as blasphemy protests continue for second day

Pakistan's Supreme Court on Wednesday overturned the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-supreme-court-acquits-asia-bibi-of-blasphemy-charges-174536">conviction of Asia Bibi</a>, a Christian mother facing execution for blasphemy, in a landmark case which has incited deadly violence and reached as far as the Vatican.

Asia might have been acquitted of blasphemy charges, but minorities still continue to be tortured in Pakistan and forced conversions are order of the day.

Pakistan's minority Shi'ite Muslims regularly come under attack by Islamist groups. Members of its small Hindu and Christian communities have also sometimes been accused of blasphemy.

Insulting the Prophet Mohammad is punishable by death under Pakistani law, and blasphemy accusations stir such emotions that they are almost impossible to defend against. Dozens have been killed following blasphemy claims, sometimes by mobs of men.

The Pakistan Human Rights Commission (HRCP) describes Pakistani Hindus as feeling "uneasy" in their country, saying in its annual report that "the migration of Hindus to India may soon turn into an exodus if the discrimination against them continues".

It is a bleak situation that is far more representative of the stigmatisation Hindus face across Pakistan, where they are often assumed to be "pro-India because of their religion", according to Marvi Sirmed, of HRCP.

According to the HRCP, which cites religious leaders, the biggest problem facing the community is the "forced conversion" to Islam of women and girls, many of whom are abducted before being married off to Muslim men.

Sikhs too have faced persecution in Pakistan. Recently, a Sikh teenage girl was raped inside an ambulance in Pakistan's Punjab province. There's no Jaziya - or religious tax - yet but Sikhs are told they must convert to Islam if they don't feel safe in the country.

The modus operandi is simple - first threaten minorities then offer protection under the umbrella of Islam.

Pakistan's founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah had envisaged a secular country, where people were free to practice their religion, a country where the government didn't discriminate between temples and mosques. But 71 years after Independence, Pakistan has turned to dehumanising minorities.

The country is considered as the birthplace of the Sikh religion but today, Sikhs are being forced to convert to Islam in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Last year, close to 60 Sikhs living in this administrative unit have requested protection.

The figures are alarming. In 1947, there were 23 per cent non-Muslims in Pakistan; now the figure stands at a dismal three to four per cent.

Pakistan's Supreme Court on Wednesday overturned the conviction of Asia Bibi, a Christian mother facing execution for blasphemy, in a landmark case which has incited deadly violence and reached as far as the Vatican.

Pakistan's Supreme Court on Wednesday overturned the conviction of Asia Bibi, a Christian mother facing execution for blasphemy, in a landmark case which has incited deadly violence and reached as far as the Vatican. Asia might have been acquitted of blasphemy charges, but minorities still continue to be tortured in Pakistan and forced conversions are order of the day. Pakistan's minority Shi'ite Muslims regularly come under attack by Islamist groups. Members of its small Hindu and Christian communities have also sometimes been accused of blasphemy. Insulting the Prophet Mohammad is punishable by death under Pakistani law, and blasphemy accusations stir such emotions that they are almost impossible to defend against. Dozens have been killed following blasphemy claims, sometimes by mobs of men. The Pakistan Human Rights Commission (HRCP) describes Pakistani Hindus as feeling "uneasy" in their country, saying in its annual report that "the migration of Hindus to India may soon turn into an exodus if the discrimination against them continues". It is a bleak situation that is far more representative of the stigmatisation Hindus face across Pakistan, where they are often assumed to be "pro-India because of their religion", according to Marvi Sirmed, of HRCP. According to the HRCP, which cites religious leaders, the biggest problem facing the community is the "forced conversion" to Islam of women and girls, many of whom are abducted before being married off to Muslim men. Sikhs too have faced persecution in Pakistan. Recently, a Sikh teenage girl was raped inside an ambulance in Pakistan's Punjab province. There's no Jaziya - or religious tax - yet but Sikhs are told they must convert to Islam if they don't feel safe in the country. The modus operandi is simple - first threaten minorities then offer protection under the umbrella of Islam. Pakistan's founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah had envisaged a secular country, where people were free to practice their religion, a country where the government didn't discriminate between temples and mosques. But 71 years after Independence, Pakistan has turned to dehumanising minorities. The country is considered as the birthplace of the Sikh religion but today, Sikhs are being forced to convert to Islam in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Last year, close to 60 Sikhs living in this administrative unit have requested protection. The figures are alarming. In 1947, there were 23 per cent non-Muslims in Pakistan; now the figure stands at a dismal three to four per cent.

Asia Bibi is free, but minorities live in fear in Pakistan

Asia Bibi, a Christian woman charged under Blasphemy law in Pakistan was acquitted by the Pak Supreme Court today.

Asia was the first woman to be sentenced to death under Pakistan's draconian blasphemy laws. Her case had drawn much global attention and condemnation.

She was charged for Blasphemy over an incident that took place in 2009.

While working in a field in her village Asia entered into a conflict with a neighbour over drinking water from a common glass.

According to reports, the neighbour who had been at loggerheads with Asia due to some property damage, fought with her after she drank the water in a common glass which was kept near the well.

The popular belief of the region restricts christians from drinking water from the same utensil as "they are&nbsp;considered unclean".

The conflict between Asia and the neighbour escalated after other villagers joined the fight.

Asia recalls that she responded to the people who were making derogatory comments on her religion.

She said, "I believe in my religion and in Jesus Christ, who died on the cross for the sins of mankind. What did your Prophet Mohammed ever do to save mankind?"

Asia was also beaten by a mob which attacked her in her house. She was later rescued by the police and was arrested after an investigation.&nbsp;

The police arrested her under Section 295 C of the Pakistan Penal Code after they launched an investigation over her remarks.

While Asia kept denying the charges claiming that she was accused by the neighbour to "settle old score", the workers complained to the cleric that Asia insulted Muhammed.&nbsp;

Asia Bibi was the only christian in the village. Even before the incident, she was repeatedly asked by fellow workers to convert to Islam, she said.

Asia remained in the prison for one year before being formally charged under the law.

She was sentenced to death by hanging in 2010 by a judge at the Sheikhupura court in Punjab. A fine of the equivalent of $1,100 was also imposed on her.

Asiya Bibi was put in solitary confinement in an 8-by-10 foot cell without windows at the Lahore prison.

To save Asia from any potential attack in the jail, the prison superintendent had kept her away from other inmates. She was given raw material to cook her own food out of the fear of being poisoned.&nbsp;

In December 2010, a month after her conviction, a Muslim cleric had announced a 500,000 Pakistani rupee award to anyone who would kill her.

Meanwhile her family had also received consistent threats from the locals, due to which they were forced to go into hiding. The mullas had also threatened that they would kill her if she was released from the jail.

The governor of Punjab Salmaan Taseer and Minority Affairs Minister Shahbaz Bhatti who had extended support to Asia were killed. 
While Taseer was assassinated on January 4, 2011 because of his defence to Asia and opposition to the blasphemy law, Bhatti was shot dead by gunmen &nbsp;on March 2, 2011.

November 2010: Asia was sentenced to death under the blasphemy law

October 16, 2014: Lahore High Court dismissed Asia's appeal and upheld her death sentence.

October 20, 2014: &nbsp;Husband appealed to Pakistan's President for clemency.

October 24, 2014: Lawyer appealed to the Supreme Court.

July 22, 2015: Supreme Court of Pakistan suspended Bibi's death sentence for the duration of the appeals process.

November 2015: Bibi's lead attorney, Naeem Shakir, announced that, after two postponements in 2015, the Lahore High Court would hear an appeal in Bibi's case on 26 March 2016.

October 13, 2016: On the day of the hearing, when it was the turn of the case "Asia Bibi against the state", one of the three members of the bench of judges of that section&nbsp;refused to be part of the bench. His refusal had led to the postponement of the case for an undetermined date.&nbsp;The Judge later resigned in a handwritten letter addressed to the President of Pakistan.

26 April 2017: Chief Justice of Pakistan declined a request for the early hearing of the case of Asia Bibi in the first week of June made by her lawyer.

October 8, 2018: Three judge bench reserved its judgement on the final legal appeal.

October 31 2018: Supreme Court acquitted Asia Bibi of blasphemy charges after accepting her 2015 appeal against her sentence. 
&nbsp;

Asia Bibi, a Christian woman charged under Blasphemy law in Pakistan was acquitted by the Pak Supreme Court today. Asia was the first woman to be sentenced to death under Pakistan's draconian blasphemy laws.

Asia Bibi, a Christian woman charged under Blasphemy law in Pakistan was acquitted by the Pak Supreme Court today. Asia was the first woman to be sentenced to death under Pakistan's draconian blasphemy laws. Her case had drawn much global attention and condemnation. She was charged for Blasphemy over an incident that took place in 2009. While working in a field in her village Asia entered into a conflict with a neighbour over drinking water from a common glass. According to reports, the neighbour who had been at loggerheads with Asia due to some property damage, fought with her after she drank the water in a common glass which was kept near the well. The popular belief of the region restricts christians from drinking water from the same utensil as "they are considered unclean". The conflict between Asia and the neighbour escalated after other villagers joined the fight. Asia recalls that she responded to the people who were making derogatory comments on her religion. She said, "I believe in my religion and in Jesus Christ, who died on the cross for the sins of mankind. What did your Prophet Mohammed ever do to save mankind?" Asia was also beaten by a mob which attacked her in her house. She was later rescued by the police and was arrested after an investigation. The police arrested her under Section 295 C of the Pakistan Penal Code after they launched an investigation over her remarks. While Asia kept denying the charges claiming that she was accused by the neighbour to "settle old score", the workers complained to the cleric that Asia insulted Muhammed. Asia Bibi was the only christian in the village. Even before the incident, she was repeatedly asked by fellow workers to convert to Islam, she said. Asia remained in the prison for one year before being formally charged under the law. She was sentenced to death by hanging in 2010 by a judge at the Sheikhupura court in Punjab. A fine of the equivalent of $1,100 was also imposed on her. Asiya Bibi was put in solitary confinement in an 8-by-10 foot cell without windows at the Lahore prison. To save Asia from any potential attack in the jail, the prison superintendent had kept her away from other inmates. She was given raw material to cook her own food out of the fear of being poisoned. In December 2010, a month after her conviction, a Muslim cleric had announced a 500,000 Pakistani rupee award to anyone who would kill her. Meanwhile her family had also received consistent threats from the locals, due to which they were forced to go into hiding. The mullas had also threatened that they would kill her if she was released from the jail. The governor of Punjab Salmaan Taseer and Minority Affairs Minister Shahbaz Bhatti who had extended support to Asia were killed. While Taseer was assassinated on January 4, 2011 because of his defence to Asia and opposition to the blasphemy law, Bhatti was shot dead by gunmen on March 2, 2011. November 2010: Asia was sentenced to death under the blasphemy law October 16, 2014: Lahore High Court dismissed Asia's appeal and upheld her death sentence. October 20, 2014: Husband appealed to Pakistan's President for clemency. October 24, 2014: Lawyer appealed to the Supreme Court. July 22, 2015: Supreme Court of Pakistan suspended Bibi's death sentence for the duration of the appeals process. November 2015: Bibi's lead attorney, Naeem Shakir, announced that, after two postponements in 2015, the Lahore High Court would hear an appeal in Bibi's case on 26 March 2016. October 13, 2016: On the day of the hearing, when it was the turn of the case "Asia Bibi against the state", one of the three members of the bench of judges of that section refused to be part of the bench. His refusal had led to the postponement of the case for an undetermined date. The Judge later resigned in a handwritten letter addressed to the President of Pakistan. 26 April 2017: Chief Justice of Pakistan declined a request for the early hearing of the case of Asia Bibi in the first week of June made by her lawyer. October 8, 2018: Three judge bench reserved its judgement on the final legal appeal. October 31 2018: Supreme Court acquitted Asia Bibi of blasphemy charges after accepting her 2015 appeal against her sentence.

Timeline: How was Asia Bibi convicted in Blasphemy case

Pakistan SC to announce judgement on Asia Bibi's final appeal against execution

Pakistan's Supreme Court is due on Wednesday to rule on the final appeal by a Christian woman sentenced to death by hanging over blasphemy allegations, a case that has drawn global attention and condemnation.

Asia Bibi, a mother of four, has been living on death row since 2010 when she became the first woman to be sentenced to death under Pakistan's draconian blasphemy laws.

She was condemned for allegedly making derogatory remarks about Islam after neighbours objected to her drinking water from their glass because she was not Muslim.

Her case has outraged Christians worldwide and been a source of division within Pakistan, where two politicians who sought to help Bibi were assassinated.

A special three-person bench headed by Pakistan's top judge, Chief Justice Saqib Nasir, is due to deliver the verdict at 9am local time (0400 GMT), according to a notice by the court.

Bibi's case is also high on the agenda of religious hardliners in Pakistan, many of whom are fiercely opposed to her release.

The ultra-Islamist Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan (TLP) party, which makes punishing blasphemy its main campaign rallying cry, earlier this month warned the court against any "concession or softness" for Bibi.

"If there is any attempt to hand her over to a foreign country, there will be terrible consequences," TLP said in a statement.

In November, TLP staged a crippling blockade of the capital after small changes to a religious oath, which it claims was tantamount to blasphemy. Seven people were killed and more than 200 wounded in clashes with the police and TLP’s supporters only dispersed after striking a deal with the military.

Insulting Islam’s prophet is punishable by death under Pakistani law, and blasphemy accusations stir such emotions that they are almost impossible to defend against. Dozens have been killed following blasphemy claims, sometimes by mobs of men.

Rights groups say the blasphemy law is increasingly exploited by religious extremists as well as ordinary Pakistanis to settle personal scores. The law does not define blasphemy and evidence might not be reproduced in court for fear of committing a fresh offence.

Bibi has always denied blaspheming and her representatives have claimed she was involved in a dispute with her neighbours and that her accusers had contradicted themselves.

In February, Bibi's husband Ashiq Masih and one of her daughters met with Pope Francis shortly before Rome's ancient Colosseum was lit in red one evening in solidarity with persecuted Christians, and Bibi in particular.

Pope Francis told Bibi's daughter: "I think often of your mother and I pray for her".

At the Rome gathering, Masih said his wife was innocent of blasphemy. "This is just hate against Christians, who are considered impure," he said.

Pakistan's Supreme Court is due on Wednesday to rule on the final appeal by a Christian woman sentenced to death by hanging over blasphemy allegations, a case that has drawn global attention and condemnation.

Pakistan's Supreme Court is due on Wednesday to rule on the final appeal by a Christian woman sentenced to death by hanging over blasphemy allegations, a case that has drawn global attention and condemnation. Asia Bibi, a mother of four, has been living on death row since 2010 when she became the first woman to be sentenced to death under Pakistan's draconian blasphemy laws. She was condemned for allegedly making derogatory remarks about Islam after neighbours objected to her drinking water from their glass because she was not Muslim. Her case has outraged Christians worldwide and been a source of division within Pakistan, where two politicians who sought to help Bibi were assassinated. A special three-person bench headed by Pakistan's top judge, Chief Justice Saqib Nasir, is due to deliver the verdict at 9am local time (0400 GMT), according to a notice by the court. Bibi's case is also high on the agenda of religious hardliners in Pakistan, many of whom are fiercely opposed to her release. The ultra-Islamist Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan (TLP) party, which makes punishing blasphemy its main campaign rallying cry, earlier this month warned the court against any "concession or softness" for Bibi. "If there is any attempt to hand her over to a foreign country, there will be terrible consequences," TLP said in a statement. In November, TLP staged a crippling blockade of the capital after small changes to a religious oath, which it claims was tantamount to blasphemy. Seven people were killed and more than 200 wounded in clashes with the police and TLP’s supporters only dispersed after striking a deal with the military. Insulting Islam’s prophet is punishable by death under Pakistani law, and blasphemy accusations stir such emotions that they are almost impossible to defend against. Dozens have been killed following blasphemy claims, sometimes by mobs of men. Rights groups say the blasphemy law is increasingly exploited by religious extremists as well as ordinary Pakistanis to settle personal scores. The law does not define blasphemy and evidence might not be reproduced in court for fear of committing a fresh offence. Bibi has always denied blaspheming and her representatives have claimed she was involved in a dispute with her neighbours and that her accusers had contradicted themselves. In February, Bibi's husband Ashiq Masih and one of her daughters met with Pope Francis shortly before Rome's ancient Colosseum was lit in red one evening in solidarity with persecuted Christians, and Bibi in particular. Pope Francis told Bibi's daughter: "I think often of your mother and I pray for her". At the Rome gathering, Masih said his wife was innocent of blasphemy. "This is just hate against Christians, who are considered impure," he said.

Pakistan's Supreme Court to rule on Christian woman facing death over blasphemy

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<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/how-asia-bibi-was-convicted-in-blasphemey-case-a-timeline-174662">How Asia Bibi was convicted in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/how-asia-bibi-was-convicted-in-blasphemey-case-a-timeline-174662">Blasphemey</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/how-asia-bibi-was-convicted-in-blasphemey-case-a-timeline-174662"> case: A Timeline</a>

Asia Bibi, a Christian woman charged under Blasphemy law in Pakistan was acquitted by the Pak Supreme Court today.

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A top Myanmar official said Wednesday that his country would take back the first group of 2,000 Rohingya refugees from camps in Bangladesh in November despite widespread doubts over the proposal.

India jumps 23 positions to rank 77 in World Bank's 'ease of doing business' ranking India on Wednesday ranked at 77th position in the World Bank's 'Ease of doing business' index.

India jumps 23 positions to rank 77 in World Bank's 'ease of doing business' ranking India on Wednesday ranked at 77th position in the World Bank's 'Ease of doing business' index. India has recorded a jump of 23 positions against its rank of 100 in 2017. China alerts India on flood-like situation in Brahmaputra river in Arunachal For the second time in a fortnight, China has alerted India of a possible flood-like situation in the Brahmaputra river in Arunachal Pradesh after a landslide blocked water upstream in Tibet, a senior Water Resources Ministry official said on Wednesday. Indonesian search team may have found Lion Air's fuselage Indonesian search and rescue workers believe they have found the fuselage of a Lion Air passenger jet that crashed with 189 people on board, and are also trying to confirm the origin of an underwater "ping" signal, officials said on Wednesday. How Asia Bibi was convicted in Blasphemey case: A Timeline Asia Bibi, a Christian woman charged under Blasphemy law in Pakistan was acquitted by the Pak Supreme Court today. Myanmar says 2,000 Rohingya to arrive in November despite doubts A top Myanmar official said Wednesday that his country would take back the first group of 2,000 Rohingya refugees from camps in Bangladesh in November despite widespread doubts over the proposal.

Asia Bibi verdict: Pakistan Top court overturns death sentence

A hard-line Islamist party in Pakistan on Wednesday called for the death of the chief justice of the Supreme Court and two other judges who overturned the death sentence of a Christian woman convicted of blasphemy.

The leader of the Tehreek-e-Labaik (TLP) party also called for the ouster of Prime Minister Imran Khan's government over the case of Asia Bibi, who was ordered freed by a Supreme Court panel earlier in the day.

"The patron in chief of TLP, Muhammad Afzal Qadri, has issued the edict that says the chief justice and all those who ordered the release of Asia deserve death," said party spokesman Ejaz Ashrafi.

The party has launched street protests blocking roads in major cities to condemn the ruling, which was welcomed by human rights advocates.

A hard-line Islamist party in Pakistan on Wednesday called for the death of the chief justice of the Supreme Court and two other judges who overturned the death sentence of a Christian woman convicted of blasphemy.

A hard-line Islamist party in Pakistan on Wednesday called for the death of the chief justice of the Supreme Court and two other judges who overturned the death sentence of a Christian woman convicted of blasphemy. The leader of the Tehreek-e-Labaik (TLP) party also called for the ouster of Prime Minister Imran Khan's government over the case of Asia Bibi, who was ordered freed by a Supreme Court panel earlier in the day. "The patron in chief of TLP, Muhammad Afzal Qadri, has issued the edict that says the chief justice and all those who ordered the release of Asia deserve death," said party spokesman Ejaz Ashrafi. The party has launched street protests blocking roads in major cities to condemn the ruling, which was welcomed by human rights advocates.

Pakistani Islamist party calls for death of judges who freed Christian woman sentenced for blasphemy

Pakistan's Supreme Court on Wednesday&nbsp;acquitted Asia Bibi,&nbsp;a Christian woman who had been sentenced to death over allegations of blasphemy.

Asia Bibi was the first woman to be sentenced to death under Pakistan's draconian blasphemy laws. Her case had drawn global attention and condemnation.

A mother of four, Asia Bibi was convicted for allegedly making derogatory remarks about Islam after neighbours objected to her drinking water from their glass because she was not Muslim.

She had been living on death row since 2010.&nbsp;

A special three-person bench headed by Pakistan's top judge, Chief Justice Saqib Nasir,&nbsp;delivered the verdict today.

Insulting Islam's prophet is punishable by death under Pakistani law, and blasphemy accusations stir such emotions that they are almost impossible to defend against. Dozens have been killed following blasphemy claims, sometimes by mobs of men.

Rights groups say the blasphemy law is increasingly exploited by religious extremists as well as ordinary Pakistanis to settle personal scores. The law does not define blasphemy and evidence might not be reproduced in court for fear of committing a fresh offence.

Bibi had always denied blaspheming and her representatives had claimed she was involved in a dispute with her neighbours and that her accusers had contradicted themselves.

(With inputs from Reuters)

&nbsp;

Pakistan's Supreme Court on Wednesday acquitted Asia Bibi, a Christian woman who had been sentenced to death over allegations of blasphemy. Asia Bibi was the first woman to be sentenced to death under Pakistan's draconian blasphemy laws.

Pakistan's Supreme Court on Wednesday acquitted Asia Bibi, a Christian woman who had been sentenced to death over allegations of blasphemy. Asia Bibi was the first woman to be sentenced to death under Pakistan's draconian blasphemy laws. Her case had drawn global attention and condemnation. A mother of four, Asia Bibi was convicted for allegedly making derogatory remarks about Islam after neighbours objected to her drinking water from their glass because she was not Muslim. She had been living on death row since 2010. A special three-person bench headed by Pakistan's top judge, Chief Justice Saqib Nasir, delivered the verdict today. Insulting Islam's prophet is punishable by death under Pakistani law, and blasphemy accusations stir such emotions that they are almost impossible to defend against. Dozens have been killed following blasphemy claims, sometimes by mobs of men. Rights groups say the blasphemy law is increasingly exploited by religious extremists as well as ordinary Pakistanis to settle personal scores. The law does not define blasphemy and evidence might not be reproduced in court for fear of committing a fresh offence. Bibi had always denied blaspheming and her representatives had claimed she was involved in a dispute with her neighbours and that her accusers had contradicted themselves. (With inputs from Reuters)

Pakistan SC acquits Asia Bibi, Christian woman sentenced to death for blasphemy

A hardline Pakistani Islamist group has warned of "terrible consequences" if a Christian woman sentenced to death for blasphemy is granted leniency in her appeal due to begin on Monday, a case that has drawn global headlines and indignation.

The Supreme Court is set to hear an appeal by Asia Bibi, a mother of four, who in 2010 became the first woman to be sentenced to death under Pakistan's draconian blasphemy laws. This is due to be her final appeal, media reported.

Her case has outraged Christians worldwide and been a source of division within Pakistan, where two politicians who sought to help Bibi were assassinated, including Punjab governor Salman Taseer, who was shot by his own bodyguard.

The ultra-religious Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan (TLP) party, which makes punishing blasphemy its main campaign rallying cry and lionizes the bodyguard who killed Taseer, warned the court against any "concession or softness" for Bibi.

"If there is any attempt to hand her over to a foreign country, there will be terrible consequences," TLP said in a statement.

Insulting Islam's prophet is punishable by death under Pakistani law, and blasphemy accusations stir such emotions that they are almost impossible to defend against. Dozens have been killed following blasphemy claims, sometimes by mobs of men.

TLP won over 2 million votes in the July 25 elections, though it has no parliamentarians in the National Assembly and only holds two provincial seats. But it wields outsized influence due to street power of its die-hard supporters.

In November, TLP staged a crippling blockade of the capital after a tweak to a religious oath, which it claims was tantamount to blasphemy. Seven people were killed and more than 200 wounded in clashes with the police and TLP's supporters only dispersed after striking a deal with the military.

In May, an extremist linked to TLP shot and wounded Pakistan's then-Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal.

Bibi was sentenced to death for allegedly making derogatory remarks about Islam after neighbours objected to her drinking water from their glass because she was not Muslim.

Bibi has always denied blaspheming and her representatives have claimed she was involved in a dispute with her neighbours and that her accusers had contradicted themselves.

Rights groups say the blasphemy law is increasingly exploited by religious extremists as well as ordinary Pakistanis to settle personal scores. The law does not define blasphemy and evidence might not be reproduced in court for fear of committing a fresh offence.

"Aasia Bibi has become a symbol of all that happens to religious minorities where class and prejudice intersect and a dysfunctional justice system is unable to protect Pakistan’s non-Muslim citizens," the English-language Daily Times said in an editorial on Monday.

A hardline Pakistani Islamist group has warned of "terrible consequences" if a Christian woman sentenced to death for blasphemy is granted leniency in her appeal due to begin on Monday, a case that has drawn global headlines and indignation.

A hardline Pakistani Islamist group has warned of "terrible consequences" if a Christian woman sentenced to death for blasphemy is granted leniency in her appeal due to begin on Monday, a case that has drawn global headlines and indignation. The Supreme Court is set to hear an appeal by Asia Bibi, a mother of four, who in 2010 became the first woman to be sentenced to death under Pakistan's draconian blasphemy laws. This is due to be her final appeal, media reported. Her case has outraged Christians worldwide and been a source of division within Pakistan, where two politicians who sought to help Bibi were assassinated, including Punjab governor Salman Taseer, who was shot by his own bodyguard. The ultra-religious Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan (TLP) party, which makes punishing blasphemy its main campaign rallying cry and lionizes the bodyguard who killed Taseer, warned the court against any "concession or softness" for Bibi. "If there is any attempt to hand her over to a foreign country, there will be terrible consequences," TLP said in a statement. Insulting Islam's prophet is punishable by death under Pakistani law, and blasphemy accusations stir such emotions that they are almost impossible to defend against. Dozens have been killed following blasphemy claims, sometimes by mobs of men. TLP won over 2 million votes in the July 25 elections, though it has no parliamentarians in the National Assembly and only holds two provincial seats. But it wields outsized influence due to street power of its die-hard supporters. In November, TLP staged a crippling blockade of the capital after a tweak to a religious oath, which it claims was tantamount to blasphemy. Seven people were killed and more than 200 wounded in clashes with the police and TLP's supporters only dispersed after striking a deal with the military. In May, an extremist linked to TLP shot and wounded Pakistan's then-Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal. Bibi was sentenced to death for allegedly making derogatory remarks about Islam after neighbours objected to her drinking water from their glass because she was not Muslim. Bibi has always denied blaspheming and her representatives have claimed she was involved in a dispute with her neighbours and that her accusers had contradicted themselves. Rights groups say the blasphemy law is increasingly exploited by religious extremists as well as ordinary Pakistanis to settle personal scores. The law does not define blasphemy and evidence might not be reproduced in court for fear of committing a fresh offence. "Aasia Bibi has become a symbol of all that happens to religious minorities where class and prejudice intersect and a dysfunctional justice system is unable to protect Pakistan’s non-Muslim citizens," the English-language Daily Times said in an editorial on Monday.

Pakistani Islamists warn of 'terrible consequences' over blasphemy appeal

A hardline Pakistani Islamist group has warned of "terrible consequences" if a Christian woman sentenced to death for blasphemy is granted leniency in her appeal due to begin on Monday, a case that has drawn global headlines and indignation.

The Supreme Court is set to hear an appeal by Asia Bibi, a mother of four, who in 2010 became the first woman to be sentenced to death under Pakistan's draconian blasphemy laws. This is due to be her final appeal, media reported.

Her case has outraged Christians worldwide and been a source of division within Pakistan, where two politicians who sought to help Bibi were assassinated, including Punjab governor Salman Taseer, who was shot by his own bodyguard.

The ultra-religious Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan (TLP) party, which makes punishing blasphemy its main campaign rallying cry and lionizes the bodyguard who killed Taseer, warned the court against any "concession or softness" for Bibi.

"If there is any attempt to hand her over to a foreign country, there will be terrible consequences," TLP said in a statement.

Insulting Islam's prophet is punishable by death under Pakistani law, and blasphemy accusations stir such emotions that they are almost impossible to defend against. Dozens have been killed following blasphemy claims, sometimes by mobs of men.

TLP won over 2 million votes in the July 25 elections, though it has no parliamentarians in the National Assembly and only holds two provincial seats. But it wields outsized influence due to street power of its die-hard supporters.

In November, TLP staged a crippling blockade of the capital after a tweak to a religious oath, which it claims was tantamount to blasphemy. Seven people were killed and more than 200 wounded in clashes with the police and TLP's supporters only dispersed after striking a deal with the military.

In May, an extremist linked to TLP shot and wounded Pakistan's then-Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal.

Bibi was sentenced to death for allegedly making derogatory remarks about Islam after neighbours objected to her drinking water from their glass because she was not Muslim.

Bibi has always denied blaspheming and her representatives have claimed she was involved in a dispute with her neighbours and that her accusers had contradicted themselves.

Rights groups say the blasphemy law is increasingly exploited by religious extremists as well as ordinary Pakistanis to settle personal scores. The law does not define blasphemy and evidence might not be reproduced in court for fear of committing a fresh offence.

"Aasia Bibi has become a symbol of all that happens to religious minorities where class and prejudice intersect and a dysfunctional justice system is unable to protect Pakistan’s non-Muslim citizens," the English-language Daily Times said in an editorial on Monday. 
&nbsp;

Rome&#39;s ancient Colosseum was lit in red on Saturday in solidarity with persecuted Christians, particularly Asia Bibi, a woman condemned to death under Pakistan&#39;s blasphemy laws.

Hundreds gathered on a rainy night outside the Roman amphitheatre that is a symbol of the martyrdom of early Christians to hear the husband and daughter of Asia Bibi.

The Catholic woman has been living on death row in Pakistan since 2010 when she was condemned for allegedly making derogatory remarks about Islam after neighbours objected to her drinking water from their glass because she was not Muslim.

Human rights groups such as Amnesty International say the blasphemy law is increasingly exploited by religious extremists as well as ordinary Pakistanis to settle personal scores.

&quot;The aim of the blasphemy laws is crush people who believe differently,&quot; Archbishop Nunzio Galantino, secretary-general of the Italian bishops conference, told the gathering.

The law does not define blasphemy and evidence might not be reproduced in court for fear of committing a fresh offence. There are no penalties for false accusations.

Asia Bibi&#39;s case drew international attention after the murder of two politicians who tried to intervene on her behalf.

At the Rome gathering, her husband Ashiq Masih said his wife was innocent of blasphemy. &quot;This is just hate against Christians, who are considered impure,&quot; he said.

The husband and daughter, who broke down in tears as she addressed the group, were earlier received by Pope Francis, who told her: &quot;I think often of your mother and I pray for her&quot;.

European Parliament President Antonio Tajani, who has been tipped as a possible Italian prime minister after next week&#39;s election, said that persecution of Christians was &quot;a genocide&quot;.

&quot;A message must be sent from this place. It is the duty of Europe to defend these values (of religious liberty) wherever on earth they are trampled on,&quot; Tajani said.

Rebecca Bitrus, a Nigerian Christian woman who was held for two years after she was abducted by Boko Haram Islamist militants, told of how she was repeatedly beaten and raped.

During the event, organised by the Catholic group &quot;Aid to the Church in Need,&quot; there were live link-ups with Aleppo, Syria, and Mosul, Iraq, both of whose minority Christian populations have been hit hard by wars.

Hundreds gathered on a rainy night outside the Roman amphitheater that is a symbol of the martyrdom of early Christians to hear the husband and daughter of Asia Bibi

Rome's ancient Colosseum was lit in red on Saturday in solidarity with persecuted Christians, particularly Asia Bibi, a woman condemned to death under Pakistan's blasphemy laws. Hundreds gathered on a rainy night outside the Roman amphitheatre that is a symbol of the martyrdom of early Christians to hear the husband and daughter of Asia Bibi. The Catholic woman has been living on death row in Pakistan since 2010 when she was condemned for allegedly making derogatory remarks about Islam after neighbours objected to her drinking water from their glass because she was not Muslim. Human rights groups such as Amnesty International say the blasphemy law is increasingly exploited by religious extremists as well as ordinary Pakistanis to settle personal scores. "The aim of the blasphemy laws is crush people who believe differently," Archbishop Nunzio Galantino, secretary-general of the Italian bishops conference, told the gathering. The law does not define blasphemy and evidence might not be reproduced in court for fear of committing a fresh offence. There are no penalties for false accusations. Asia Bibi's case drew international attention after the murder of two politicians who tried to intervene on her behalf. At the Rome gathering, her husband Ashiq Masih said his wife was innocent of blasphemy. "This is just hate against Christians, who are considered impure," he said. The husband and daughter, who broke down in tears as she addressed the group, were earlier received by Pope Francis, who told her: "I think often of your mother and I pray for her". European Parliament President Antonio Tajani, who has been tipped as a possible Italian prime minister after next week's election, said that persecution of Christians was "a genocide". "A message must be sent from this place. It is the duty of Europe to defend these values (of religious liberty) wherever on earth they are trampled on," Tajani said. Rebecca Bitrus, a Nigerian Christian woman who was held for two years after she was abducted by Boko Haram Islamist militants, told of how she was repeatedly beaten and raped. During the event, organised by the Catholic group "Aid to the Church in Need," there were live link-ups with Aleppo, Syria, and Mosul, Iraq, both of whose minority Christian populations have been hit hard by wars.

Rome's Colosseum turned red to protest Pakistan blasphemy law

Asia Bibi&#39;s blasphemy case was adjourned by Pakistan&#39;s Supreme Court after&nbsp;a judge refused to hear her final plea, the Pakistani media reported.&nbsp;

It is not clear when the hearing will commence, Pakistani daily Dawn reported, after&nbsp;one of the three-member bench Justice Iqbal Hamid-ur-Rehman decided to recuse as he had also heard the Salmaan Taseer murder case.&nbsp;

Former Punjab governor Salman Taseer was gunned down in public for supporting Bibi&#39;s cause.

Hundreds of security personnel had been deployed in and around the court in Islamabad ahead of the landmark judgement.&nbsp;

Asia Bibi, a Christian, has been on death row since 2010 for apparently desecrating Prophet Muhammad, an allegation she denies.

Her lawyers are seeking to repeal her death&nbsp;sentence.

In 2010, while Bibi was working on a farm with Muslim women, an argument broke out over a cup of water. The women complained to a local cleric that Bibi had insulted the Prophet.

Bibi was charged with blasphemy.&nbsp;

Bibi&#39;s&nbsp;daughters now live in seclusion fearing attack from angry villagers, AFP reported.&nbsp;

Her relatives claim she was framed as some people held a personal grudge against her.

Her husband has also written to Pakistan President Mamnoon Hussain pleading for clemency and taking her to France, where she has been promised asylum.&nbsp;

If the verdict is in favour of Bibi, it could cause serious repercussions&nbsp;in the Muslim-majority country, as the hardliners in the country are demanding death for Bibi.&nbsp;

If Bibi is sentenced, she will be the first person to be legally executed for blasphemy, which will be a huge setback for minorities living in Pakistan, AFP reported.&nbsp;

Blasphemy is a serious offence in Pakistan and the maximum punishment is death.

Pakistan&#39;s blasphemy laws became &quot;Islamicised&quot; between 1980 and 1986 under General Zia-ul-Haq&#39;s regime. After partition, Pakistan adopted the law against religious offences set by the British in 1860. Zia&#39;s government added more clauses to the law, which include:&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>&nbsp;In 1927, 295- A was added which stated remarks which outraged religious sentiments would receive imprisonment, which could be extended ten years and a fine.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>&nbsp;In 1982, 295-B was added for defiling or desecrating a copy of the Muslim holy book of Qur&#39;an, for which a person was given life imprisonment.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>&nbsp;In 1986, 295-C was included for insulting Prophet Muhammad.</li>
</ul>

(Source: <a href="http://www.pakistanblasphemylaw.com/?page_id=15">Pakistan Blasphemy Law</a>)

Between 1984 and 2004, 5,000 cases of blasphemy were registered and 964 people were charged and accused of blasphemy. Out of the 964 accused, 32 were killed by vigilantes.&nbsp;

Petitions have been signed to free Asia Bibi by people worldwide, which include &#39;Save Asia Bibi&#39; and &#39; A Call For Mercy&#39;. Benedict XVI, who became the first pope to resign in almost 600 years in 2013, also called for a&nbsp;pardon .&nbsp;

(WION)

 
&nbsp;

It is not clear when the hearing will commence after?one of the judges refused to hear Bibi's final plea

Asia Bibi's blasphemy case was adjourned by Pakistan's Supreme Court after a judge refused to hear her final plea, the Pakistani media reported. It is not clear when the hearing will commence, Pakistani daily Dawn reported, after one of the three-member bench Justice Iqbal Hamid-ur-Rehman decided to recuse as he had also heard the Salmaan Taseer murder case. Former Punjab governor Salman Taseer was gunned down in public for supporting Bibi's cause. Hundreds of security personnel had been deployed in and around the court in Islamabad ahead of the landmark judgement. Asia Bibi, a Christian, has been on death row since 2010 for apparently desecrating Prophet Muhammad, an allegation she denies. Her lawyers are seeking to repeal her death sentence. In 2010, while Bibi was working on a farm with Muslim women, an argument broke out over a cup of water. The women complained to a local cleric that Bibi had insulted the Prophet. Bibi was charged with blasphemy. Bibi's daughters now live in seclusion fearing attack from angry villagers, AFP reported. Her relatives claim she was framed as some people held a personal grudge against her. Her husband has also written to Pakistan President Mamnoon Hussain pleading for clemency and taking her to France, where she has been promised asylum. If the verdict is in favour of Bibi, it could cause serious repercussions in the Muslim-majority country, as the hardliners in the country are demanding death for Bibi. If Bibi is sentenced, she will be the first person to be legally executed for blasphemy, which will be a huge setback for minorities living in Pakistan, AFP reported. Blasphemy is a serious offence in Pakistan and the maximum punishment is death. Pakistan's blasphemy laws became "Islamicised" between 1980 and 1986 under General Zia-ul-Haq's regime. After partition, Pakistan adopted the law against religious offences set by the British in 1860. Zia's government added more clauses to the law, which include: In 1927, 295- A was added which stated remarks which outraged religious sentiments would receive imprisonment, which could be extended ten years and a fine. In 1982, 295-B was added for defiling or desecrating a copy of the Muslim holy book of Qur'an, for which a person was given life imprisonment. In 1986, 295-C was included for insulting Prophet Muhammad. (Source: Pakistan Blasphemy Law) Between 1984 and 2004, 5,000 cases of blasphemy were registered and 964 people were charged and accused of blasphemy. Out of the 964 accused, 32 were killed by vigilantes. Petitions have been signed to free Asia Bibi by people worldwide, which include 'Save Asia Bibi' and ' A Call For Mercy'. Benedict XVI, who became the first pope to resign in almost 600 years in 2013, also called for a pardon . (WION)

Pakistan: Asia Bibi blasphemy case adjourned by top court

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