Restrictive religion law passes parliament in Kyrgyzstan
A restrictive religion law passed its final reading in Kyrgyzstan’s parliament on November 6, sparking concern among the Christian minority. The new law, if approved by President Kurmanbek Bakiyev, requires religious organizations to have a minimum of 200 members whose identities have been confirmed by local authorities, bans the distribution of religious literature in public places, and prohibits private religious schools.
Glenn Penner, VOMC’s CEO, states, “This law makes it impossible for smaller churches to function legally. Even larger congregations will have difficulty getting 200 members to sign the necessary documents. History shows that these believers have good reason to be nervous about registering their names with the government.”
Pray that this law will be rejected by the president. Ask God to give Christians in Kyrgyzstan strength and boldness (Acts 4:29-31).
Orissa Update
Warning, Graphic Pictures
Christian doctor released in Pakistan
Dr. Robin Sardar (55), who was falsely accused of blasphemy by a local Muslim in the district of Hafizabad, Punjab in early May (see www.persecution.net/pk-2008-05-07.htm), was released from prison on November 4, according to All Pakistan Minorities Alliance. The court exonerated Sardar after the complainant stated that the blasphemy case was registered against him over a misunderstanding. He was reunited with his family but has gone into hiding in fear of retaliation from Muslim militants angered by his release.
Christians’ Trial for ‘Insulting Turkishness’ Stalls Again
Case against two converts drags on; media already passed sentenced on Christianity.
ISTANBUL, November 12 (Compass Direct News) – Two years into a trial for “insulting Turkishness” that has been light on evidence and heavy on mud-slinging at Turkey’s Protestant community, a court proceeding last week brought no progress.
Another witness for the prosecution failed to appear in the trial of Turkish Christians Turan Topal and Hakan Tastan, charged with “insulting Turkishness” and spreading Christianity through illegal methods. Moreover, a Justice Ministry answer to the court about the viability of charges under Turkey’s controversial Article 301 had yet to arrive at the court last week.
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