Summary
The killing of a doctor accused of blasphemy in Pakistan has raised serious concerns over police conduct and the treatment of blasphemy suspects in the country. Shah Nawaz, who had surrendered to authorities under the impression that he would receive protection and a chance to prove his innocence, was reportedly killed by police in what his family claims was a staged encounter.
Following his arrest, Nawaz’s family asserted that he was wrongfully accused of blasphemy and that his Facebook account had been hacked. His death occurred shortly after he was taken into custody, contradicting police claims that he was killed during a shootout while attempting to escape. The incident has drawn condemnation from human rights groups, as it follows another recent case of a blasphemy suspect being killed by police under similar circumstances. In response to public outrage, authorities suspended the officers involved and have initiated investigations into the violence surrounding Nawaz’s arrest, which included a mob burning his clinic and later his body. This situation highlights the volatile environment surrounding blasphemy accusations in Pakistan, where they can lead to mob violence and extra-judicial killings, raising significant concerns about human rights and the rule of law.
The family of a doctor accused of blasphemy in Pakistan says police killed him in a fake encounter
Sep. 23 / Apnews / Provides a detailed account of the killing of a doctor accused of blasphemy in Pakistan, highlighting police misconduct and family testimonies. It effectively captures the human rights implications and societal reactions, making it a compelling read. “ MULTAN, Pakistan (AP) — The family of a doctor accused of blasphemy said Monday he was killed by police while in custody in southern Pakistan after he...
Kashmiri activist raises concern over persecution of minorities in Pak
Sep. 29 / Business Standard / Highlights the ongoing human rights concerns in Pakistan, but lacks direct connection to the blasphemy case of the doctor, making it less relevant to the specific topic at hand. “ His address comes as international scrutiny over Pakistan's human rights record, particularly regarding its treatment of minority communities, continues to grow