A man allegedly shot and killed his daughter in an apparent honor killing in Balochistan’s Jhal Magsi on Wednesday before fleeing the scene.
According to police, the suspect, identified as Ali Nawaz Magsi, killed his daughter, Masma Sultana, in Goth Raheja Magsi, within the jurisdiction of the Levies Police Station, after accusing her of “Siyah Kari” (a so-called honor-related crime).
The Levies Force took custody of the victim’s body and transferred it to a hospital for a post-mortem examination. A search operation is underway to apprehend the suspect.
In a separate incident, a 14-year-old US-born girl, Hira Anwaar, was shot dead in Quetta on January 27, allegedly by her father and uncle, over her social media activities, police said.
The family, who had been living in New York, was reportedly unhappy with Hira’s dress, choice of friends, and online presence. Police have launched an investigation into the case.
It is worth noting that incidents of honor killings, domestic violence, and harassment have become increasingly frequent in Balochistan, particularly in Naseerabad and Jaffarabad districts.
According to a 2024 report by the Aurat Foundation, 73 cases of violence against women were reported in Balochistan, including 43 cases of murder. However, women’s rights groups argue that many cases go unreported due to social pressure, fear, and stigma.
Rights organizations have urged the government to enforce stricter laws against honor killings, improve access to education, employment, and social protection for women, and launch public awareness campaigns to challenge discriminatory practices.