Asia Bibi acquitted in blasphemy case

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court on Wednesday acquitted Asia Bibi of blasphemy charges, declaring the death penalty handed down to her by a trial court null and void.

The verdict on her final appeal against her execution was reserved by a special three-member bench on October 8.

The bench ruled that Asia Bibi be released if she is not facing anymore charges.

The verdict was announced by a special bench headed by Chief Justice Mian Saqib Nisar at 9am. Justice Asif Saeed Khosa and Justice Mazhar Alam Khan Miankhel were the other members of the bench.

While reserving the verdict after hearing, the top court had restrained both electronic and print media from discussing or commenting on the matter till the final judgement.

Asia Bibi, a Christian accused of blasphemy eight years ago, was awarded death sentence over blasphemy charges.

A case was filed against her by a prayer leader in Katanwala village of Nankana Sahib.

Asia Bibi was accused of blasphemy in 2010 after a row over water with neighbours.