Supreme Court Acquits Brothers After 20 Years in Blasphemy Case

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court of Pakistan has acquitted two brothers, Liaqat Ali and Umar Draz, in a blasphemy case that has spanned nearly two decades. The court set aside their death sentences, which had been upheld by the Lahore High Court over ten years ago, in a ruling delivered on Saturday.

The three-judge bench, led by Chief Justice Yahya Afridi, reviewed the case following criminal appeals against the Lahore High Court’s decision from September 17, 2015. The brothers were convicted in 2006 by a sessions judge in Jhang, receiving death sentences and fines of Rs500,000 each. Their appeals were previously dismissed by the high court.

This landmark ruling raises significant questions about the application of blasphemy laws in Pakistan, particularly concerning mental health considerations that may affect culpability. The Supreme Court’s judgement, authored by Justice Ishtiaq Ibrahim, reflects a growing awareness of the complexities surrounding such cases, which often involve severe social and legal repercussions.

As the acquitted brothers prepare for their reintegration into society after two decades of imprisonment, this case highlights the urgent need for reform in Pakistan’s blasphemy laws. Legal experts and human rights advocates are calling for a review of these laws to prevent future miscarriages of justice. The Supreme Court’s decision may pave the way for further discussions on legal reforms in the country.