Is Pakistan's Human Rights Body Condemning the ‘Honour’ Killing of Awami Action Committee Leader?
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Synopsis
The ongoing issue of honour killings in Pakistan has once again come to the forefront as the Human Rights Commission condemns the recent murder of Javed Naji, a political leader. This incident raises alarming questions about human rights, societal norms, and the urgent need for justice in Pakistan's ongoing struggle against gender-based violence.
Key Takeaways
- HRCP condemns recent honour killings
- Urgent need for justice and reform
- Victims often face violence from family members
- Culture of impunity must be dismantled
- Public protests highlight civil society's demand for change
Islamabad, Aug 1 (NationPress) The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has unequivocally condemned the heinous ‘honour’ killing of Javed Naji, vice-chairman of the Awami Action Committee, alongside a married woman in the Tangir district of Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan (PoGB).
The commission characterized the incident as a severe infringement on human rights and has called for an immediate response from local authorities.
“The fact that Naji was slain in front of his mother and wife highlights the savagery of this act. This represents the second such occurrence in Tangir within a week, where two men and two women lost their lives in the name of ‘honour’,” the HRCP stated on Thursday.
The rights organization demands a prompt and transparent investigation, the rapid prosecution of those responsible, and decisive measures to dismantle the culture of impunity surrounding honour-related violence in PoGB.
Earlier this week, reports revealed that the HRCP has documented at least 405 honour killings across the South Asian nation in 2024, with the majority of victims being women murdered by family members asserting to protect family honour.
Last month, a couple was executed on the orders of a local tribal council in Balochistan for marrying against their families' wishes.
Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif faced widespread backlash for making disgraceful remarks about the Baloch community after a video of the gruesome incident circulated on social media.
Asif attributed blame to the Baloch people, claiming, “the ones responsible for this oppression are your own brothers.”
Baloch activists expressed that Asif's comments were a “matter of regret and shame,” arguing that instead of recognizing the Sharif government's inadequacies regarding the incident, he chose to deflect responsibility for failures stemming from ineffective governance, public distrust in the judiciary and law enforcement, and the unchecked spread of firearms.
Last week, numerous civil society members and rights advocates protested in Quetta, demanding justice and an end to parallel justice systems.
In another tragic event, Sana Yousuf, a prominent Pakistani social media influencer, was recently murdered at her home in Islamabad by a relative, sparking widespread outrage and renewed scrutiny of the country's ongoing honour killing crisis.
Local media reported that the well-known content creator, originally from Upper Chitral, was shot at close range by a male relative who had visited her. He fled the scene immediately after.
Point of View
It is evident that honour-based violence remains a critical issue in Pakistan, requiring urgent attention from both the government and civil society. The HRCP's condemnation and calls for justice reflect a growing recognition of the need to confront these deep-rooted cultural practices and to ensure that victims receive the justice they deserve. The nation must unite to address these injustices and foster a society where human rights are upheld for all.
NationPress
31/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan?
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) is an independent body that monitors and reports on human rights issues in Pakistan, advocating for justice and accountability.
What are honour killings?
Honour killings are acts of violence, usually murder, committed by family members against individuals who are perceived to have brought shame or dishonour upon the family.
How many honour killings have been reported in Pakistan in 2024?
The HRCP has recorded at least 405 honour killings across Pakistan in 2024, with the majority of victims being women.
What actions are being called for by the HRCP?
The HRCP is demanding immediate investigations, prompt prosecutions of perpetrators, and actions to dismantle the culture of impunity surrounding honour-based violence.
What role does the government play in addressing honour killings?
The government is responsible for enforcing laws against honour killings, ensuring justice for victims, and promoting awareness to prevent such crimes.
