International Christian Concern (ICC) has learned that two Christian evangelists are being charged with violating Pakistan’s notorious blasphemy law and could face a mandatory death sentence if found guilty. The two Christians are being accused of making derogatory remarks against Islam, the Quran, and offending the religious sentiments of a Muslim while preaching in Lahore.

On February 13, Haroon Ayub Masih and Salamat Mansha Masih, two Christian evangelists, were reportedly preaching in Model Town Park, located in Lahore. While preaching, the two Christians met Haroon Ahmad, a Muslim, and several of Ahmad’s friends.

According to the First Information Report (FIR # 61/21), the two Christians gave Ahmad a Christian book entitled “Water of Life” and began to discuss the divinity of the prophets and Jesus Christ. This discussion with Ahmad turned into an argument that ended with Ahmad accusing the Christians of making derogatory remarks against Islam.

Police have charged the two Christians with committing blasphemy under Sections 295-A, 295-B, and 295-C of Pakistan’s Penal Code. If found guilty, the two Christians could face execution as Section 295-C carries a mandatory death sentence.

In Pakistan, false accusations of blasphemy are widespread and often motivated by personal vendettas or religious hatred. Accusations are inflammatory and have the potential to spark mob lynching, vigilante murders, and mass protests.

Read more at International Christian Concern