Cybercrime Law: Up to 10 years jail for blasphemy

Muscat:  Individuals using digital platforms to insult the Divine Being, the Holy Quran, or the Prophets now face severe legal consequences in Oman, including lengthy prison sentences and heavy fines. The new legal framework specifically targets those who exploit information technology to undermine religious sanctity or incite religious hatred, reflecting a zero-tolerance policy towards blasphemy and religious disrespect in the digital sphere.

Under Article 44 of the new legislation, anyone found using an electronic site, information system, or information technology tool to commit acts against religious values will be subject to imprisonment for a period of no less than five years and no more than ten years. In addition to jail time, offenders will face a fine of no less than OMR 5,000 and no more than OMR 10,000.

The law explicitly criminalizes the following four categories of acts:

1. Assaulting or insulting the Divine entity

2. Insulting or distorting the Holy Quran.

3. Insulting the Islamic religion or any of its rituals, or insulting any other religion.

4. Insulting any of the Prophets.

These stringent measures are designed to deter any attempts to use the internet as a medium for religious provocation, ensuring that the spiritual and moral fabric of society remains protected from digital abuse. By penalizing insults to all religions, the law fosters an environment of mutual respect and tolerance across the Sultanate's diverse community.