THE tragic incident in Kohistan, where a young girl lost her life on the orders of a local jirga, has once again cast a dark shadow on the issue of honour-related crimes in our society. This disturbing episode, reminiscent of a similar tragedy a decade ago, underscores the urgent need to address the misuse of power by local jirgas and to ensure that justice prevails in such cases.
First and foremost, it is crucial to condemn unequivocally the actions of the jirga in Kohistan. The idea that a traditional council can issue a death decree to individuals based on a video circulating on social media is not only morally reprehensible but also a gross abuse of power. Jirgas are meant to serve as forums for dispute resolution, not as instruments of violence and extrajudicial punishment. The recurrence of such incidents highlights a broader societal problem where violence is often perpetrated against women under the guise of honour. According to data compiled by the Sindh Suhai Organisation, at least 217 people, including 152 women, fell victim to so-called honour-related crimes across Sindh in 2022 alone. This alarming trend requires urgent attention and concerted efforts to protect the lives and dignity of women. The responsibility lies squarely on the shoulders of the state to ensure the safety of its citizens. It is imperative that the authorities thoroughly investigate the Kohistan incident and bring the perpetrators, including those who issued the decree, to justice. The rule of law must prevail over archaic and harmful practices that tarnish the reputation of our country. It is important to promote awareness campaigns and educational programs to challenge cultural norms that perpetuate violence against women. There is also need to establish effective mechanisms to protect women at risk, providing them with the necessary support and assistance. Media can play a vital role in challenging regressive practices. It is high time that we, as a society, collectively work towards eliminating the stain of honour-related crimes. The tragic loss of lives, as seen in Kohistan and other areas, should serve as a stark reminder that justice, equality and the protection of human rights must be non-negotiable principles in our quest for a just and progressive society.
