The Release International (RI) www.releaseinternational.org has reported that two Pakistani Christian women in Punjab will appear in court for “blasphemy” charges.
It noted that the women, Martha Bibi and Asia Bibi, who are not related, were both expecting a hearing last week but both cases were adjourned adding that at Asia's last hearing in Nankana Sahib on June 8, the adjournment was prompted by prosecution witnesses from the police failing to turn up.
RI said that in Martha's hearing in Lahore it was adjourned because the judge was 'unavailable' and that both women, charged under Section 295C blasphemy laws, were accused after disputes with people they worked with.
“Asia Bibi has been detained in Sheikhupura District Jail following a discussion she had about her faith with fellow farm laborers in 2009. Charges were brought against Martha in 2007 after she became involved in a dispute with builders in Kasur who, her friends alleged, refused to return equipment belonging to Martha and her husband, Boota Masih,” RI report said.
It noted that the members of Release partners, Sharing Life Ministry Pakistan (SLMP), based in Pakistan were in court last week to encourage both defendants stressing that they’ve been offering practical and spiritual support to both women and their families and that SLMP has also contributed to Martha's legal fees.
RI stated: “Martha is said to be 'very concerned' about the outcome of her trial and SLMP has reported that Asia's two daughters are finding it very hard to be separated from their mother.”
It continued: “Pray that Martha, Asia and their families will have a fresh revelation of God's love and His power working in and through them. And also pray for justice and immediate acquittal for these two women.”
It needs to be noted that Release International, through its international network of missions, serves persecuted Christians in 30 countries around the world by supporting pastors and Christian prisoners, and their families; supplying Christian literature and Bibles; and working for justice.
For more information on Release International, visit their website: www.releaseinternational.org
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