Campaign by text could lead to deaths

PAKISTAN: The Pakistani government has been accused of inciting mob violence and encouraging people to spy on each other after it pursued a text message campaign against blasphemy.

Millions of citizens have received texts from national regulator the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, warning against sharing blasphemous content online and to report any suspect material. Blasphemy is punishable by death in Pakistan.

‘‘Uploading and sharing any blasphemous content on the internet is a punishable offence under the law,’’ the message states, giving an email address to report suspicious material.

The initiative has caused anger among liberals, who have accused the government of a slide into totalitarianism, pandering to religious hardliners and encouraging vigilante attacks.

Blasphemy is such a serous crime in Pakistan that a mere allegation can prompt lynchings and riots. Parents have been known to murder their own children for being accused of blasphemy.

Critics argue that the law is open to flagrant abuse, with allegations flung about to undermine rivals and settle political or family scores. Less than a month ago, a student was murdered after being accused of blasphemy.

Campaigners said the text message scheme would fan hatred and abuse. ‘‘Sects now can misuse the PTA to spew hatred and venom against the people they do not like,’’ said Shahzad Ahmad, a digital rights activist.

The regulator was unrepentant. ‘‘This SMS campaign will bring more positive use of social media, specifically Facebook, which has been used to escalate religious sentiments,’’ an official said.

– The Times