Who am I?

My name is Imran Abbas. I want to seek Asylum in the UK because I have been a victim of Blasphemy Laws in my home country of Pakistan. A case has been registered against me under Section 295 C of the Pakistan Penal Code - the punishment of this case is the death penalty.

My Story

A classmate of mine and I fell in love while we were studying together. Unfortunately, we belonged to different social classes and her family were not happy about our relationship. They were insulted that their daughter was interested in a man from a lower social class.

Because of this they attacked me in October 2010. Luckily, I survived but I had to leave my village and go to live with my brother. But her family soon involved local religious leaders in the issue and I was charged with blasphemy.  

Blasphemy is a very serious charge in Pakistan and brings with it serious consequences. Not only could I be sentenced to the death penalty but even if found innocent, my personal safety would be at risk from religious vigilante groups. 

The public often assume that someone accused is guilty, even if proven innocent. This was seen last month in the case of Asia Bibi, a Christian woman who was acquitted of blasphemy charges by the Supreme Court of Pakistan but has had to remain in prison due to fears for her safety of released. 

To escape this dangerous situation, I applied for a student visa in the UK and came here in 2011. I cannot go back to Pakistan as I will not be safe - I must stay in the the UK.

Why am I raising funds?

My immigration case is fixed for hearing and I am in very vulnerable position, therefore, I am looking for help in the United Kingdom.

Please help me by making a small donation to my case by sharing the campaign with friends and family - any help you can give me is so greatly appreciated!