Lahore, Pakistan: Pakistan’s judiciary is under intense pressure as religious hardliners mount fierce resistance to efforts aimed at reforming the country’s notoriously abused blasphemy laws. The Islamabad High Court’s recent decision to form a judicial commission to investigate false blasphemy accusations has sparked violent backlash from extremist Islamic leaders, threatening judicial independence and the safety of lawyers and human rights defenders. 

Hafiz Saad Rizvi, leader of the ultra-conservative Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), has openly condemned the court’s ruling, invoking the controversial case of Mumtaz Qadri to inflame public sentiment. His incendiary remarks risk inciting unrest and emboldening those who seek to undermine the rule of law through religious vigilantism. 

Maulana Fazlur Rehman, head of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F), has reportedly issued direct threats to Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan, demanding the withdrawal of the ruling and warning of “severe consequences” if ignored. This blatant intimidation exposes a dangerous erosion of judicial authority. 

Lawyers who courageously defend those falsely accused face targeted vilification and threats. Among the voices fueling hostility is Qaiser Ahmed Raja, a divisive Islamic scholar and social media figure known for his extremist views. 

In this hostile environment, LEAD Ministries Pakistan, founded by Sardar Mushtaq Gill and led by Pastor Imran Amanat, remains a critical beacon of hope. The organization provides legal support and advocacy for vulnerable minorities, challenging the misuse of blasphemy laws that are frequently wielded to persecute Christians, Ahmadis, Hindus, and dissenting Muslims. 

Pastor Imran Amanat warns that “when judges and lawyers are threatened, the entire justice system is at risk — and with it, the rights and freedoms of all Pakistanis.” Under his leadership, LEAD Ministries continues to stand firm despite growing threats. 

Blasphemy laws in Pakistan have long been weaponized to settle personal disputes and fuel sectarian violence, rather than serve justice. The recent suspension of the judicial commission following religious party pressure marks a grave setback to reform and judicial accountability. 

While some moderate religious leaders express concern over false accusations, the majority—including figures like Allama Tahir Ashrafi—remain opposed to meaningful reforms, signaling a systemic challenge. 

The international community and domestic civil society must urgently support Pakistan’s judiciary and human rights defenders to uphold the rule of law and protect religious freedom. Failure to do so risks emboldening extremists and plunging Pakistan deeper into sectarian violence and legal impunity.