Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives with respect to violations in Pakistan of the freedom of individuals to profess and practice religion or belief.
Last action on Feb 14, 2002Referred to the House Committee on International Relations.
Take Action
Summary
Urges General Pervez Musharraf of Pakistan to repeal: (1) the Blasphemy Law; (2) Martial Ordinance XX; and (3) the Eighth Amendment to the Constitution of Pakistan declaring Ahmadis "not Muslims" under the law. Appeals to General Musharraf to release prisoners jailed under Ordinance XX and the Blasphemy Law. Encourages the General to eliminate the requirement to declare one's religion when applying for a passport or swear to exclusive statements regarding religion, admission to an educational institution, obtaining the national identity card, or employment.
Calls upon the President and the Secretary of State to: (1) raise violations of the freedom of thought, conscience, religion, or belief, at every appropriate level with representatives of the Government of Pakistan; and (2) include experts on religious liberty on U.S. delegations to Pakistan and to appropriate regional and international meetings.