The Supreme Court of Pakistan on Thursday dismissed the review petition filed by convicted murderer Zahir Jaffer against his death sentence in the Noor Muqaddam murder case, thereby upholding the judgments of the lower courts. A three-member bench, presided over by Justice Hashim Kakar, announced the short order, concluding that the arguments presented by the convict did not warrant any interference with the final judgments already delivered by the courts.
Court Rejects Mental Health Defense
During the hearing, defense counsel Khawaja Haris argued that his client was suffering from mental health issues at the time of the incident and had been undergoing psychiatric treatment. However, the court questioned this claim, observing that allegations of mental illness must be supported by credible medical records, treatment history, and clear evidence, which had not been satisfactorily provided. The bench further noted that the documents presented, including a medical letter purportedly issued from abroad, lacked the consistency and reliability required under the law.
Victim's Father Expresses Satisfaction
Following the verdict, Noor Muqaddam's father, Shaukat Muqaddam, expressed satisfaction with the outcome while speaking to the media outside the Supreme Court. He revealed that he had been approached for a settlement during the proceedings but refused to bow to any pressure. Becoming emotional, he stated that the case was not only about his daughter but about the safety and protection of all daughters in Pakistan. He added that he had remained steadfast in his pursuit of justice and could not be influenced by money or pressure.
Shaukat Muqaddam thanked the media and all those who supported his family throughout the legal battle, saying that although the judicial process had taken time, justice had ultimately been served. The case has drawn significant public attention, highlighting issues of violence against women and the importance of judicial accountability.
