Pakistani Christian sentenced to death for blasphemy

LAHORE, PAKISTAN — A Pakistani Christian, Younis Masih, has been sentenced to death for blasphemy by the sessions court in Lahore.

According to sources in Pakistan, following the sentencing on May 30, a large mob led by Islamic clerics responded by shouting slogans against Younis Masih and threatening anyone involved in providing security or legal assistance to « blasphemers. »

Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) says Mr Masih, a Christian from Chungi Amar Sadu in Lahore, was charged on September 10, 2005 under Section 295C of the Pakistan Penal Code. Section 295C relates to blasphemy against the Prophet Mohammed and carries the death penalty. Although no one has yet been executed by the State for blasphemy, several have been murdered by extremists. He has been held in Kot Lakhpat prison since September 11, 2005, where he faces regular threats to his security.

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