Circuits Deny Asylum To Alleged Victims| Of Sectarian Violence In Pakistan

(CN) - The First and Sixth Circuits denied asylum to two Pakistani petitioners who claimed they were victims of sectarian violence.

In Boston the First Circuit concluded that Muhammad Butt, a Sunni Muslim, failed to establish past persecution based on his refusal to sell his building to a Shia.

The Sixth Circuit in Cincinnati upheld the denial of Aftab Ahmed Mohammed's asylum petition after he was beaten by a mob for praying in a Sunni mosque. Mohammed, a Shia, claimed he was chased out of the mosque anddetained by police until his sister paid a bribe to get him out.

The circuit dismissed his case, saying the Pakistani government never sanctioned the mob. See rulings in Butt v. Keisler and Mohammed v. Keisler.

Subscribe to Closing Arguments

Sign up for new weekly newsletter Closing Arguments to get the latest about ongoing trials, major litigation and hot cases and rulings in courthouses around the U.S. and the world.

Email *

Submit