Pakistan's Blasphemy Laws: Fueling Vigilante Violence and Islamist Extremism
A Muslim mob in Pakistan burned down several Christian churches and houses in Faisalabad after accusing two Christians of desecrating the Quran. Blasphemy allegations frequently incite violent mobs in Pakistan, with Christians being the primary targets. Pakistan's blasphemy laws, which originated in the British colonial period, are often misused against vulnerable minority groups and even against Muslims to settle personal scores. At least 85 people have been murdered since 1990 in relation to blasphemy allegations. Policymakers are urged to repeal the blasphemy laws and the state is called upon to protect vulnerable minorities and maintain law and order. However, some activists argue that the laws are not the main cause of mob violence, as the excuse given for such attacks is often the perceived inaction of the police.