Balochistan Assembly Condemns Honor Killings, Moves to End Outdated Traditions
Quetta, Pakistan:In a strong response to the recent tragic incidents of honor killings in Balochistan, Mina Majid, Special Advisor to the Chief Minister, expressed her deep concern and condemnation during a session of the provincial assembly. She labeled such incidents as deeply regrettable and emphasized that they are contrary to the values of the province. “Women across the province stand united in condemning these acts. Our government has set a precedent by arresting the culprit, Sardar, and no one will be granted leniency. Such practices will no longer be tolerated, and we will work to end these outdated traditions,” she declared.
Majid further stressed the need to abolish the oppressive and regressive customs that have long plagued the region, emphasizing the government’s determination to hold perpetrators accountable.
Molana Hidayat-ur-Rehman, a member of the Haq Do Tehreek, also joined the condemnation, stating, “I condemn the killing of both men and women. Our religion is one of honor, and no one has the right to violate our sanctity or our privacy.” He underscored the importance of protecting the dignity of both men and women and the sanctity of their lives.
In addition, Farah Azim Shah, a member of the Balochistan Awami Party (BAP), voiced her concerns, saying, “We strongly condemn this incident and will not allow anyone to establish a state within a state.” Her comments highlighted the need to maintain law and order and prevent any groups from undermining the state’s authority.
Following the discussion, the Balochistan Assembly passed a joint resolution condemning the killing of both men and women in the name of honor. The resolution marks a unified stance against such practices and calls for urgent legal reforms to protect citizens, particularly women, from violence.
Subsequently, Speaker of the Assembly adjourned the session, with the next meeting scheduled for 3:00 PM on July 25. The resolution and the assembly’s firm stance signal the provincial government’s commitment to tackling violence and ending gender-based discrimination in Balochistan.
