This document discusses the challenges that arise when religious institutions seek to directly participate in political life while also maintaining special privileges and protections from criticism. It analyzes several examples, including blasphemy laws in Pakistan and cases involving foreigners in countries like Sudan and Afghanistan. The thesis is that where religious institutions enter politics, their beliefs should not be given any special deference. Allowing religion privileged status in political debates can undermine principles of democracy, minority rights, and the rule of law.