Pakistan has become a living hell for religious minorities and even for Muslims, who form the majority in the state.

A 22-year-old man, Basharat Masih, a resident of Faisalabad, was arrested in Rawalpindi on June 26, 2024, while traveling to northern Pakistan. His arrest was a surprise, as no one had filed a complaint or an FIR against him. The police claimed to have found blasphemous content on his cellphone.

However, an even bigger shock came when the FIA Cyber Crime Division added his name to an already registered FIR (No. 87/2024) originally filed against Nafees Bin Abdul Aziz. Eight others had already been arrested in this FIR. Before arresting Basharat Masih, the authorities unlawfully included his name in the same case, even though he had no connection or friendship with the others. They were merely members of a Facebook group run by an unidentified individual or group.

Recently, the Punjab government revealed the existence of an organized network called the “Blasphemy Business Gang,” which operates such social media groups to entrap young boys and girls. So far, more than 450 people have been arrested for allegedly having blasphemous content on their cell phones.

His Arrest and Police Role:

After he had been arrested, Basharat Masih was handed over to the FIA, which then produced him before the judicial Magistrate Sector 30 for the police physical remand. The Magistrate allowed police 10 days of physical remand in which Basharat Masih was tortured and given the third degree to admit his crimes. While he was tortured brutally in the lock, Basharat fainted and became unconscious in fear of his death; police immediately provided him with medical assistance, and when he became conscious, they instantly moved him to jail and submitted their report to the Session court.

How strange is the police’s role? According to the Pakistan Panel Code (PPC), such arrests require Complaints or civilians, but in this case, the Police itself becomes the party, and even the witnesses are also police constables. This clearly shows the mala-fide attention of the police and security agencies.

Our Role:

The father and uncle of Basharat Masih, George, and Naveed contacted our team members in the Faisalabad district for legal help. On 12^th February 2024, our legal head filed the bail application for Basharat Masih’s release, as even after the 8th month, no witness or complaint appeared before the trial court, even after multiple notices were issued.

We therefore request our readers and supporters to keep Basharat and our team of ECSPE in your prayers.

Video of Father and Wife of Basharat Masih: