Jirga orders killing of woman in Khairpur Karo Kari case

A shocking honour killing rocks Sindh’s Khairpur district.

Assailants gun down 22-year-old Khalida in Tando Masti Khan over false karo kari claims. The assault takes place in the presence of witnesses following a jirga that orders her to be killed. Phone videos show the gunman kill her in the middle of the road, which become viral.

Passers-by just stand and gape–there are no one to assist or take her to the hospital. She dies as soon as she gets shot. The wife of Rashid Khalida was accused together with a local man. The murder is filed against four suspects and two were arrested by the police. The rest are hunted in raids.

Women Development Minister Shaheena Sher Ali slams the barbaric act. She even blasts dumb witnesses. She requires a complete report of DIG Sukkur and all persons involved should be punished. The minister reminds women that they can get support. Shelter homes and safe houses are on the ready. Dial helpline 1094 or go to offices in distress- help is waiting.

In related news, a model court frees eight accused in the 2018 Umme Rubab Chandio family massacre in Mehar. Sardar Ahmed Chandio, Burhan Khan Chandio, former SHO Karim Chandio and others, PPP leaders, are free. Her father, Raees Karamullah Chandio, brother Mukhtiar and uncle were killed by armed men.

Close security is provided in the court to deliver the verdict. There are underlying flaws in such cases. Jirgas break the law, crowds are the facilitators of horror. Sindh government promises more crackdowns. Honour killings need to be rebuffed by the society. Protect women- report violence, avoid silence. Justice demands action.