Sindh Doctor Blasphemy Case: Allegations of Staged Encounter

KARACHI - The tragic case of Dr. Shahnawaz Kunbhar, a doctor accused of blasphemy, has taken a shocking turn. On September 19, he was shot dead during what police described as a gun battle in Mirpurkhas. However, recent findings from an inquiry led by Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar have revealed that the police may have ‘staged the encounter’.

Dr. Kunbhar was accused of sharing blasphemous posts on social media, which led to widespread outrage and calls for action. In the wake of his death, the Sindh government has taken significant steps to address the situation. Last week, Lanjar announced the removal of top police officials in the Mirpurkhas division, indicating a serious commitment to investigating the circumstances surrounding the doctor’s death.

During a press conference at the Directorate of Social Media office, Lanjar emphasized the importance of upholding the Constitution and the rule of law. He stated, “We believe in the supremacy of the Constitution and rule of law, and will protect the rights of every citizen in the province.” This statement reflects the government’s intention to ensure that justice is served, regardless of the status of those involved.

Furthermore, Lanjar highlighted the People’s Party’s long-standing advocacy for democracy and the protection of people’s rights. He reiterated, “Our party chairman is against any kind of extremism in the country.” This commitment to democratic values is crucial in a time when tensions surrounding blasphemy accusations can lead to severe consequences.

In response to the incident, the Sindh government has taken decisive action. The Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Mirpurkhas has been removed from his position, and Zubair Dreshak has been appointed as the new DIG. This change aims to strengthen the rule of law and boost police morale. Additionally, the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) for Umerkot and Mirpurkhas has also been dismissed.

Lanjar revealed that a comprehensive 31-page report has been prepared, investigating all aspects of the Mirpurkhas/Umerkot tragedy. He stated, “Based on the report, we are ordering FIRs against involved officers, and the committee has recommended registering FIRs against the perpetrators.” This indicates a serious approach to accountability, as the government is determined to pursue justice even if the victim’s family does not file a case. “No matter how influential or senior an officer is, we will hold everybody accountable,” Lanjar assured.

The case of Dr. Kunbhar serves as a stark reminder of the complexities surrounding blasphemy laws in Pakistan. It raises important questions about the balance between protecting religious sentiments and ensuring justice for individuals accused of such serious charges. As the Sindh government takes steps to address this tragedy, it is crucial for society to engage in open discussions about the implications of these laws and the need for reform. Only through dialogue and accountability can we hope to prevent such incidents in the future and foster a more just society.