Blasphemy Arrest in Pakistan Ignites Controversy

A former Senate employee in Punjab, Pakistan, Tauseef Shahzad, was arrested under blasphemy laws for allegedly insulting the Prophet on Facebook. The charges, filed under Section 295(C) and the Anti-Terrorism Act, carry severe penalties including death. His family was taken into protective custody.

A former Senate employee in Punjab, Pakistan, was arrested on Tuesday for allegedly insulting the Prophet on his Facebook page, according to police reports.

The individual, identified as Tauseef Shahzad and in his 20s, is facing serious charges under Section 295C of the Pakistan Penal Code and Section 7 of the Anti-Terrorism Act 1997. Authorities stated that these charges can lead to life imprisonment or even the death penalty.

Shahzad, a resident of Cheechawatni city, was detained following a complaint filed by Sub-Inspector Shamsul Hasan, who discovered blasphemous posts during a night shift. Shahzad's wife and three children were also taken into custody as a precaution against potential public backlash.

(With inputs from agencies.)