Doctors at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) have declared Zahir Jaffer, the main convict in the Noor Muqaddam murder case, mentally and psychologically fit. This declaration comes after a thorough medical evaluation conducted by a two-member medical board from PIMS.
Zahir Jaffer, who is currently serving his sentence at Adiala Jail, was examined three days ago by specialists from the Department of Psychology and Neurology at PIMS. The examination was requested by the superintendent of Adiala Jail.
The report based on the findings from the medical board confirmed that Zahir Jaffer showed no signs of mental illness or psychological disorder. His behavior and temperament were found to be completely normal, debunking any concerns about his mental health.
A source within PIMS stated, “After thorough evaluation, the medical board concluded that Zahir Jaffer is completely healthy from both psychological and neurological perspectives.” This evaluation becomes important as Zahir Jaffer’s legal team prepares for a clemency appeal.
On July 20, the superintendent of Rawalpindi Adiala Jail formally requested a medical evaluation to meet a necessary legal requirement. According to the request, after the Supreme Court rejected Jaffer’s appeal against the death sentence, the only remaining legal option for him was a presidential mercy petition. The Adiala Jail administration emphasized that a medical and psychological evaluation by an official board was required before filing the clemency appeal.
Zahir Jaffer’s case gained widespread attention after the brutal murder of Noor Muqaddam in July 2021. Noor, 27, was found murdered at Jaffer’s Islamabad residence, where she was tortured and beheaded.
On May 20, the Supreme Court upheld the death sentence against Zahir Jaffer for his role in the murder. The Islamabad High Court had previously converted his jail term for rape charges into a second death penalty.
With the medical board’s report confirming Zahir Jaffer’s psychological fitness, his legal team is now preparing to proceed with the clemency petition before the president. The case continues to draw national attention as it progresses through the final stages of legal proceedings.
In other news, read about Zahir Jaffer’s review plea in the Supreme Court against his death sentence in the Noor Mukadam murder case
