Politicisation of Islam and a Culture of Atrocities against Religious Minorities in Modern-Day Pakistan

Since independence, the politicisation of Islam in Pakistan has fostered a culture of atrocities against religious minorities. This explains why Pakistan tops the list of countries at the risk of mass killings. The Islamic revivalist movement that emerged under the military dictatorship of General Zia-ul-Haq during the 1970s-80s is often equated with Pakistan’s descent into religious intolerance. The controversial blasphemy laws modified under his regime continue to abet atrocity crimes across Pakistan. This article reflects on the constitutional and legal frameworks to understand the prevalence of hate speech and incitement in the country. Through case studies of recent episodes of violence, it sheds light on the state’s complex governance structures, its struggle to counter episodes that incite violence, and the barriers to implementing rule of law. Furthermore, the article highlights the need for key reforms on both national and international level to push for the implementation of atrocity prevention frameworks.