DDHK News - Thousands of Pakistani Muslims staged demonstrations in several major cities to protest Pope Benedict XVI's statement on the country's blasphemy law, Friday (14/1).
Demonstrators in Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi chanted slogans against the Pope's claim that the death penalty for insulting Islam in Pakistan was revised.
"Pope Benedict's statement is an attack on the hearts of Muslims," read a poster carried by protesters.
In his annual address to diplomats, the Pope said the blasphemy law could be used as an excuse for acts of injustice and violence against minorities.
"I once again urge the leaders of the country to take the steps necessary to overturn the law, all the more because it is clear that it serves as an excuse for acts of violence against religious minorities," the Pope said Monday.
The Pope's statement was considered an interference in the domestic affairs of Pakistan and Muslims.
A senior Jamiat-e-Ulema-e-Islam (Jui) leader said the Pope was highly respected as a Christian leader, but he should refrain from meddling in other people's religious affairs.
Pakistan continues to roam with strikes and rallies, although officials say the government has no intention of changing the blasphemy law.
Experts say the strike has more to do with politics than religion.
The demonstrators warned that efforts to change the existing blasphemy law would make public protests even wider. (Mel/ Press TV). *
