Civil Society Condemns Extrajudicial Killing of Blasphemy Accused in Mirpurkhas

KARACHI: The issue of blasphemy in Pakistan has long been a contentious topic, often leading to severe consequences for those accused. Recently, the tragic case of Dr. Shahnawaz Kunbhar, who was accused of blasphemy, has sparked outrage across the nation. Reports indicate that Dr. Kunbhar was subjected to an extrajudicial killing while in police custody in Mirpurkhas, raising serious concerns about human rights and the rule of law in the country.

The Joint Action Committee (JAC), a coalition of human rights defenders and civil society organizations, has vehemently condemned this act of violence. They have called upon Sindh Chief Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Sindh Home Minister to initiate a judicial inquiry into the circumstances surrounding Dr. Kunbhar's death. The JAC has rejected the police inquiry ordered by the Sindh Home Department, labeling it insufficient and biased.

In a strong statement, the civil society groups have demanded that First Information Reports (FIRs) be filed against the police officers involved in this custodial killing. This includes high-ranking officials such as DIG Mirpurkhas Jawed Jiskani, SSP Mirpurkhas Chaudhry Asad, and others. They have also urged international bodies, including the European Commission and the United States, to refrain from issuing visas and scholarships to police officers implicated in such egregious violations of human rights.

The family of Dr. Kunbhar has expressed their deep distress over the situation. They reported that they had voluntarily handed over the accused to the police, believing in the system's ability to ensure justice. However, the subsequent extrajudicial killing has shattered their trust. Following Dr. Kunbhar's death, the police registered two additional FIRs against him, which the civil society has denounced as a mere cover-up.

In a disturbing turn of events, the family was denied protection when they received Dr. Kunbhar's body, which was handed over to them under the cover of darkness. A mob, incited by the situation, attacked the family and prevented them from conducting a proper burial. When they attempted to bury Dr. Kunbhar on their private land, the mob escalated their aggression, even going so far as to burn the body. The police, who were expected to maintain order, failed to take action against those leading the mob.

The JAC has made it clear: "We demand the government to register an FIR against those who incited the mob and they be arrested." This incident has not only highlighted the dangers faced by individuals accused of blasphemy but has also created an atmosphere of fear and harassment within society. Many people are now expressing their concerns on social media, fearing for their safety and the safety of their loved ones.

As this situation unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for reform in Pakistan's handling of blasphemy accusations and the protection of human rights. The voices of civil society must be heard, and accountability must be demanded to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future. Only through a commitment to justice and the rule of law can the cycle of violence and fear be broken, ensuring a safer environment for all citizens.