Naushad Valiyani, a doctor by profession, was accused of blasphemy on the complaint of a medical representative, Muhammad Faizan, who said the doctor had thrown his visiting card in the dustbin which had the name of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) written on it.
This was a shameless act by the medical representative because it clearly represents that the doctor, on not entertaining him, was purposely accused of this act. However, the issue was resolved after Mr Vilayani apologized and said he didnt mean to insult the Holy Prophet (PBUH) but the local clerics pressed the police to register a case against him. It is also a possibility that the said doctor who belonged to the Ismaili community was purposely indicted by the religious leaders who pressed for action against him.
Perhaps this case gives a solid basis to the government to review the law and make necessary changes so that minority groups are not indicted by the extremist minded religious leaders.
FARUKH SARWAR
Islamabad
