The True Blasphemers - II
By: Syed Amaar Ahmad

I am writing in reference to Mahjabeen Islam’s article ‘The true blasphemers’ (Daily Times, January 1, 2011). I commend the Daily Times for continuing to publish bold and rational pieces that challenge the pseudo-Islamic laws in Pakistan. For far too long, the world has come to know of Islam through the news of terrorism, blasphemy laws and fatwas (decrees) of death. The great tragedy is that it is Islam that asks its followers to adopt a humane, tolerant and merciful attitude towards fellow human beings. Unfortunately, in Pakistan, the mainstream religious parties arouse base passions and false religious frenzy in the masses and hold the government hostage by the threat of anarchy. I hope that the enlightened media such as the Daily Times would remain a voice of reason and a beacon of hope.