The Pakistan Ulema Council (PUC) has strongly condemned a statement made by the mother of Bano, a woman tragically murdered in Balochistan. On Wednesday, the council declared that the mother’s remarks were in direct contradiction to the teachings of the Quran, Sunnah, as well as Pakistan’s constitution and national laws.
Led by Chairman Hafiz Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi, the Pakistan Ulema Council issued a statement rejecting the mother’s defense of her daughter’s murder. The council stated that the remarks suggested the parents’ potential complicity in what they described as an “honour killing.” The PUC emphasized that this act was both deplorable and condemnable.
The Pakistan Ulema Council further asserted that forgiveness for such a grievous crime was not permissible under Islamic Sharia, regardless of any personal wishes of the victim’s parents. They stated, “Even if the parents wish to forgive the murderers, such forgiveness would be invalid under Sharia law, as unjust killings cannot be pardoned.” According to the council, the victim’s parents themselves could be seen as complicit if they condoned or defended the murder.
The PUC also demanded that strict action be taken against those who facilitated the crime. They called on the state to conduct a thorough investigation to ensure the perpetrators are held accountable. The council made it clear that there should be no lapses in the pursuit of justice for Bano.
In a video statement earlier, Bano’s mother defended the murder, claiming that her daughter’s death was in accordance with Balochi tribal customs and traditions. She also defended the tribal leader Sardar Sher Baz Satakzai, asserting that he should not be held responsible for the killing. Her appeal for the release of Satakzai and others involved further sparked controversy and drew the attention of the Pakistan Ulema Council.
The Pakistan Ulema Council concluded its statement by reaffirming that Sharia mandates punishment for those involved in oppression, regardless of their relationship to the victim.
Also Read: ATC Extends Remand of Tribal Chief in Balochistan’s ‘Honour Killing’ Case
