International Cases
Asia Bibi v. The State
Appeal allowed
No.39L of 2015
The appellant Mst. Asia Bibi, belonging to Christian community of the village, along with other Muslim ladies was plucking Falsa (Grewia/purple berry where the appellant uttered derogatory remarks against the Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad.
Thereafter the appellant was called in a public meeting and inquired about the occurrence, where the appellant confessed her guilt.
Trial Court convicted the appellant under Section 295-C and sentenced her to death with a fine of Rs.100,000/- and in default whereof, to further undergo six months’ SI
The court held that ‘Tolerance is the basic principle of Islam. It is a religious and a moral duty and further relates to the dignity of human beings, the equality amongst all creations of Allah and also to the fundamental freedom of thought, conscience and belief.
It does not mean compromise, lack of principles or lack of seriousness about one’s principles rather it means accepting the fact that human beings, naturally distinct in their appearance, situation, speech, behaviour, and values, have the right to live in peace and to be as they are.
Islam may tolerate anything, but it teaches zero tolerance for injustice, oppression, and violation of the rights of other human beings the Quran speaks about, from the very beginning. Freedom of religion has been guaranteed by Islam.
It prohibits coercion in matters of faith and belief. “There should be no compulsion in religion. Surely, the right way has become distinct from error.” [Al-Baqara (2:256)] Thus, as Muslims we are bound by this authoritative order and should act within the purview of such’.
The court held that ‘Tolerance is the basic principle of Islam. It is a religious and a moral duty and further relates to the dignity of human beings, the equality amongst all creations of Allah and also to the fundamental freedom of thought, conscience and belief.
It does not mean compromise, lack of principles or lack of seriousness about one’s principles rather it means accepting the fact that human beings, naturally distinct in their appearance, situation, speech, behaviour, and values, have the right to live in peace and to be as they are.
Islam may tolerate anything, but it teaches zero tolerance for injustice, oppression, and violation of the rights of other human beings the Quran speaks about, from the very beginning. Freedom of religion has been guaranteed by Islam.
It prohibits coercion in matters of faith and belief. “There should be no compulsion in religion. Surely, the right way has become distinct from error.” [Al-Baqara (2:256)] Thus, as Muslims we are bound by this authoritative order and should act within the purview of such’.
MinorMatters is a public movement dedicated to fostering religious harmony and protecting the freedom of religion or belief in Sri Lanka. We seek to support and empower efforts to advance reconciliation, counter religious extremism and promote national coexistence.
