Pakistan surfaces as country of concern for U.S.

WASHINGTON — Incessant persecution of Christians and other religious minorities in Pakistan — a country perpetually recognized for its poor track record in upholding religious autonomy — is generating increased concern from the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF). A recent news release from the USCIRF expressed outrage over the Islamic country’s abuse of its blasphemy laws, which implement punishments, including death, to any person who defiles the name of Muhammad.

Younis Masih, a 29-year-old Christian Pakistani, was a victim of his country’s manipulation of the blasphemy laws. According to the USCIRF news release, Masih asked that a noisy group of Muslims remain quiet around his home in September 2005 after his nephew had died and his family was in mourning.

Angered by Masih’s request, the group of Muslims accused him of insulting the Islamic religion, which signifies blasphemy under Pakistani law, the news release stated.

The situation sparked repeated attacks on other homes in the area that belonged to Christians, and Masih and his wife were beaten during the attacks. Masih has been imprisoned for nearly two years and was sentenced to death May 30.