In a landmark decision, two Christian nurses have been exonerated from blasphemy charges in Pakistan, a case that has seen them living in fear for over four years. The district court determined that the evidence presented by the prosecution was insufficient to uphold the charges.
Mariam Lal and Newosh Arooj were accused under Section 295-B of Pakistan’s Penal Code, which enforces life imprisonment for desecration of the Qur’an. Their acquittal in November 2025 became final when the appeal deadline passed this week, as reported by Aid to the Church in Need.
The allegations arose after a senior doctor reported in April 2021 that the nurses, employed at Civil Hospital in Faisalabad, Punjab Province, had allegedly defiled a religious sticker on a hospital cupboard. This accusation led to a violent mob attempt on their lives, prompting authorities to detain the nurses for their safety.
Following five months in custody, the nurses were released to await trial outside of jail due to credible threats. The court’s decision to allow this was based on the dangers they faced, which also prevented them from working and necessitated security measures.
The National Commission for Justice and Peace, supported by Aid to the Church in Need, provided legal representation for the nurses.
The acquittal is a notable case of a lower court in Pakistan dismissing blasphemy charges, which are often elevated to higher courts amid societal pressures.
Fr. Khalid Rashid Asi from NCJP remarked that the district judge made an independent ruling based on factual evidence.
Although the families of the nurses feel relieved, they continue to face challenges.
“Our struggle now continues for the secure future, rehabilitation and dignified reintegration of the nurses,” Fr. Asi stated to ACN.
Recognition was given to Bishop Indrias Rehmat of Faisalabad and advocates Sanaullah Baig and Shahid Anwar for their courageous support. Fr. Asi also expressed gratitude to the international community for their solidarity.
“Their prayers, financial assistance, and international solidarity strengthened not only the two nurses but also reminded us that the Church and the global community do not remain silent in times of suffering,” he added.
John Pontifex of ACN UK, who met the nurses in 2023, noted that they maintained hope despite the threats.
Pakistan’s blasphemy laws, outlined in Sections 295 and 298, have been criticized for misuse, often leading to personal vendettas. While these laws include severe penalties, including the death sentence for defaming Islam or its Prophet Muhammad, they offer no protection against false accusations.
Such laws are frequently employed by Islamic extremists to target religious minorities such as Christians, Shias, Ahmadiyyas, and Hindus.
The Centre for Social Justice, based in Lahore, disclosed that 200 individuals were accused of blasphemy in 2020, the highest annual number recorded. Since 1987, at least 1,855 people have faced charges under these laws.
International advocates continue to urge Pakistan to reform these laws, which are often leveraged to oppress religious minorities.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
