Section 295-C of Pakistan Penal Code: Controversy and Criticism

This article discusses blasphemy law of Pakistan and deliberates on international criticism and pressure on Pakistan to change death penalty for crime under section 295-C of PPC. It highlights the reasons why even the most liberal Pakistani governments have not been able to bring any reforms in this law let alone change the law. The article further focuses on section 295-C of Pakistan Penal Code on defamation of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) and sees how it is different from other offences relating to religion mentioned in part XV of Pakistan’s Penal Code. This research carries out an in depth study of the Qur’anic verses and the incidents which took place during the life time of Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) as recorded in classical Islamic literature, of offending, ridiculing or disobeying the Prophet of Islam. Finally capital punishment under Islamic law and under laws of United States is discussed. Islamic legal philosophy on capital punishment and mannerism in which Islamic legal system deters the misuse of law in capital crimes is part of this research. The article also suggests that the constitutional status of a country has a very important role to play in its legislation.