Sir: The Supreme Court of Pakistan endorsed the Islamabad High Court’s decision to set free the juvenile girl Rimsha, who was accused of blasphemy. This case made history in blasphemy cases in Pakistan and the decision was appreciated both nationally and internationally. However, scores of victims accused of blasphemy vanish into the shadows without the public hearing about them. The accused of blasphemy are frequently threatened or attacked before any investigation has even been carried out. Four years ago, Asia Bibi was considered ‘unclean’ by some Muslim women. A dispute ensued and her fellow women complained that she blasphemed against the Prophet of Islam (PBUH). She was sentenced to death by hanging and has been languishing in jail ever since. The case prompted widespread international condemnation but in Pakistan, those who publicly called for Asia’s release were murdered, like Governor Salmaan Taseer and Minister for Minorities Shahbaz Bhatti. Asia’s case has been widely featured in media reports around the world but despite international and domestic uproar, she is still in jail. Former President Asif Ali Zardari dropped plans to issue a presidential pardon after hardline pro-blasphemy law groups staged massive demonstrations against the measure. In the light of this, the Centre for Legal Aid Assistance and Settlement (CLAAS) has after careful consideration submitted a plea before the Lahore High Court for Asia’s case to be resolved. Joseph Francis, the head of CLAAS, believes that God will soften the hearts of the judges and that justice will prevail. The case has shed light on how the Pakistani government has been taken hostage by militant extremists. Pakistani judges are under pressure from mobs waiting outside their courtrooms, ready to spark riots. Lawyers fear to take on the defence of the accused. Rather than doing what is right, it is easier for Pakistani authorities to turn a blind eye. Releasing Asia would help Pakistan demonstrate that it will not bow down to those who threaten the rule of law through violence and intimidation. SHAMIM MASIHVia Email