A pastor imprisoned in Pakistan for 13 years on a false charge died two days after being released, stated a rights group.
Zafar Bhatti died Oct. 5 at home in Rawalpindi in Pakistan’s Punjab province, the rights group British Asian Christian Association told Christian Daily International-Morning Star News. Bhatti was released Oct. 2 from Adiala District Jail after his conviction on a blasphemy charge was overturned in Lahore High Court.
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The association helped with Bhatti’s legal representation and aided his wife, who is not well.
Bhatti was the founder of the ministry Jesus World Mission Church.
His legal ordeal began in 2012, when an Islamist cleric claimed Bhatti sent electronic communication that was disrespectful of Muhammad. Bhatti was charged under Section 295-C of Pakistan’s blasphemy laws — a section that mandates the death penalty.
Life sentence
In 2017, Bhatti was sentenced to a life term, which was changed in 2022 to the death penalty.
Bhatti’s health deteriorated drastically because of a heart condition and diabetes. The association said it had appealed for a medical release, reports Christian Daily-Morning Star.
World Watch
Pakistan ranks No. 8 on Open Doors’ 2025 World Watch List of the 50 places most difficult to be a Christian.
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