The killing of a doctor accused of blasphemy and the subsequent mob violence in Pakistan

Nawaz’s family contends that he was assured protection by the police when he voluntarily turned himself in to contest the blasphemy charges, which he attributed to a hacked social media account. After his death, a mob reacted violently, burning his clinic and later his body in front of his grieving family. This incident is part of a troubling pattern in Pakistan, where accusations of blasphemy can lead to mob violence and extrajudicial killings, raising serious concerns about law enforcement practices and the protection of citizens under the law. Following Nawaz’s death, authorities suspended the involved officers and arrested individuals linked to the mob violence, reflecting the ongoing tension surrounding blasphemy laws in the country.

Context of Blasphemy Laws in Pakistan

Blasphemy accusations in Pakistan often trigger severe public reactions, including riots and mob violence. The country’s blasphemy laws are highly controversial, with potential penalties including death sentences, although executions for blasphemy are rare. The case of Shah Nawaz highlights the dangers faced by individuals accused of blasphemy, as well as the challenges in ensuring justice and accountability within the police force.

Recent Incidents

Nawaz’s killing marks the second reported extrajudicial killing of a blasphemy suspect within a week, following the death of Syed Khan in Quetta, who was shot by a police officer while in custody. These incidents underscore the volatile nature of blasphemy accusations in Pakistan and the urgent need for reform in how such cases are handled by law enforcement and the judicial system.