Pakistan: Woman Charged with Blasphemy Released on Bail
May 15 2007
Postings >> Pakistan

A Christian woman who faces 'false' allegations of blasphemy has been released on bail -- but supporters fear her life is still on the line.

The release of Martha Bibi was ordered by the High Court, against a payment of 100,000 rupees (about £830).

'I asked God's intervention to provide me relief, as the ultimate justice comes from Him,' she said. 'God listened to me and today I am out of jail. I will serve Him for my entire life.' The All Pakistan Minorities Alliance (APMA) says it will continue to press for Bibi's acquittal through the courts. But APMA is concerned for her safety in the meantime: extremist elements have called for Bibi to be hanged publicly. Her husband and children are in hiding far from their home in Kot Nanak Singh, in the Kasur district of Punjab.

As 7x7 reported on February 6, Bibi was accused of blasphemy after she tried and failed to retrieve building equipment she had loaned to a construction site.

Meanwhile, in Kotri, Jamshoro district, yet another Christian has been accused of blasphemy under sections 295A and C of Pakistan's penal code. Sattar Masih was preparing for his wedding the next day when some Muslims confronted him with a piece of paper bearing his picture and derogatory comments about the Prophet Mohammed. It was allegedly found in a collection box outside the local mosque.

Christian Solidarity Worldwide reports allegations that Masih was tortured by local police to gain a false confession. Masih told APMA: 'How can I write this blasphemous note with my picture and name on it, when I know that the punishment for the blasphemer is death?'

• Thank God that Martha Bibi has been released on bail -- and ask Him to keep her and her family safe.
• Pray that all charges against Bibi and Masih will be dropped and that they will be able to start a new life.