Zahir Jaffer’s death sentence for the murder of Noor Mukadam has been upheld by the Supreme Court of Pakistan.
In its final ruling, the Supreme Court of Pakistan reaffirmed the death sentence of Zahir Jaffer for the brutal murder of Noor Mukadam, concluding a high-profile case that has gripped the nation since 2021. However, the apex court modified certain aspects of the original verdict.
Supreme Court Proceedings
A three-member bench led by Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah and comprising Justices Jamal Khan Mandokhail and Athar Minallah heard the final appeal. The bench thoroughly reviewed arguments presented by both sides before issuing its judgment. Zahir Jaffer’s counsel, Barrister Salman Safdar, argued that the prosecution’s case leaned heavily on CCTV footage, which he claimed was never played during Islamabad High Court proceedings. However, Justice Shah pointed out that the footage had been authenticated by the Punjab Forensic Science Agency and directly captured by CCTV, leaving no doubt about its integrity.
The court upheld Zahir Jaffer’s death sentence for the murder of Noor Mukadam but made notable changes in other areas. His conviction under Section 376 for rape was altered from a death sentence to life imprisonment, which under Pakistani law means 25 years without the benefit of early release. Additionally, the kidnapping charge was dismissed entirely, with the court declaring that evidence for unlawful confinement was insufficient.
The defense also presented arguments for Zahir’s household staff, including the watchman and gardener, asserting they had no active role in the crime. However, the judges questioned their inaction when Noor tried to escape. Justice Athar Minallah remarked that if they had let Noor go, “the outcome might have been different.” Despite their role in the crime being limited, their failure to act contributed to the tragic events of July 20, 2021.
Background Of The Case
Public Reaction
The Supreme Court’s decision has been met with widespread approval from civil society and women’s rights activists, who view it as a significant step toward justice and accountability. Shafaq Zaidi, a childhood friend of Noor, expressed relief outside the court, stating, “This is a victory for all the women of Pakistan. It shows that our justice system can deliver justice and should give women more confidence in the legal process.”
The case has sparked national discourse on women’s safety and the effectiveness of the legal system in addressing gender-based violence. The Supreme Court’s ruling is seen as a landmark moment in the ongoing struggle for women’s rights in Pakistan.
Justice has finally been served.
Sources: Geo News, Dawn, and Business Recorder.
