Still no bail for Pakistan's 'blasphemy' girl

A Pakistani Christian girl accused of blasphemy in a case that has sparked international outcry must spend at least four more days in jail after a court adjourned a bail hearing.

Judge Muhammad Azam Khan has repeatedly delayed bail proceedings for Rimsha Masih, who was arrested last month accused of burning papers containing verses from the Koran in breach of Pakistan's blasphemy laws.

Khan again put back the hearing overnight until September 7 following a request from a lawyer representing Rimsha's original accuser, neighbour Hammad Malik.

Let her free: Activists of The Pakistan United Christian Movement protest for the release of Christian girl Rimsha accused of blasphemy. Pic/AFP

Rao Abdur Raheem, the lawyer, said the case should not be heard to show solidarity with a strike being observed by the bar association in neighbouring Punjab province.

Rimsha's lawyer said the case against his client had collapsed. "The prosecution has completely failed. There is nothing left in this case now," Raja Ikram, Rimsha's lawyer said.