Projection of Blasphemy Cases in Pakistani Media

Abstract

The allegation of blasphemy in our society faces violent reactions by the masses and it is generally due to a lack of knowledge about legislation concerning blasphemy in the country. In Pakistan since the introduction of blasphemy law in the country from 1986 to 2010, over 1274 individuals were charged with blasphemy allegation and alarmingly over 51 were killed either before the completion of their trial or pronouncement of conviction. This study explores the role of media in blasphemy cases in Pakistan. Researcher has used the triangulation method. The researcher analyzes the content of two mainstream newspapers using the content analysis technique. For this purpose, 100 faculty members and students of mass media from different universities of Lahore were approached. Result reveals that value relation is significant for creating awareness in people who are exposed to media for more time. Result shows that more than 50% of respondents think that media fails to perform its duty as a watchdog of society. The relation between exposure to media and level of educating people on legislation is also significant.