Quetta (Web Desk) Despite widespread public outrage and official condemnations following the brutal Degari killings, honour-based killings continue unabated in Balochistan. On July 29, Muhammad Shoaib and his pregnant wife Benazir were shot dead in Mastung District after being lured by the woman’s family under the pretext of reconciliation. This tragic incident marks the third honour killing reported in the province in recent weeks, highlighting the persistent challenge despite calls for reform.
The victims, married through court procedure around seven years ago against the woman’s family’s wishes, were killed near the old Customs’ office in Lakpass area. Their two children, aged six and two, were unharmed. Authorities have registered an FIR, naming five of Benazir’s brothers as suspects, and arrested multiple individuals in connection with the case.
This incident follows the earlier Degari case where a couple was executed on the orders of a tribal jirga, sparking nationwide condemnation and a resolution by the Balochistan Assembly condemning such unlawful killings. Despite legal frameworks and resolutions denouncing the practice as inhumane and illegal, deeply ingrained traditions and a parallel justice system continue to undermine effective enforcement and accountability.
Data from the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan reports 346 honour killings nationwide between January and November 2024, with significant figures from Sindh, Punjab, and Balochistan. However, convictions remain rare, with Balochistan recording only one conviction despite multiple reported cases.
The ongoing violence calls attention to the urgent need for stronger legal action, societal mindset change, and institutional reforms to eradicate honour-based violence. Public condemnation alone has proven insufficient when entrenched cultural norms overshadow the rule of law.
Authorities, civil society, and political leaders continue to stress that honour killings have no place in modern society and violate fundamental human rights, urging concerted efforts to bring perpetrators to justice and protect vulnerable individuals.
