In a firm response to the recent tragedy in Balochistan, the Pakistan Ulema Council (PUC) on Wednesday rejected and condemned the justification offered by the mother of Bano — a woman killed in what’s being described as an honour killing.
PUC Chairman Hafiz Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi said the mother’s video statement, in which she defended the killing of her own daughter and called for the release of tribal leader Sardar Sher Baz Satakzai, was against Islamic values, Pakistan’s laws, and the spirit of humanity.
“The remarks by the parents are not just disturbing — they also show signs of their involvement,” the council said in a written statement. “No one has the right to forgive such a crime. Shariah does not permit pardoning in clear cases of unjust killing.”
Balochistan incident: Pakistan Ulema Council rejects mother’s defense of suspects
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The council didn’t hold back, stating that anyone trying to protect the murderers — even family members — should also be investigated. They stressed that the responsibility to punish such crimes falls on the state, not individuals.
What Did Bano’s Mother Say?
The controversy began when a video of Bano’s mother surfaced online. In it, she claimed her daughter had been punished in line with traditional tribal customs. She went further, requesting the authorities to release all those who had been arrested in connection with the killings, especially Sardar Sher Baz Satakzai.
She insisted that the tribal elder bore no responsibility and shouldn’t be blamed. The mother’s remarks triggered widespread public fury.
People all over Pakistan are stunned and angered. Many are struggling to understand how a mother could publicly defend the murder of her own daughter — and even call for the release of those accused in the case.
Authorities wasted no time. Authorities say they’ve arrested at least 11 people so far — and among them is a powerful name: Sardar Sher Baz Satakzai. He’s not just any suspect; he’s a prominent tribal leader, and many believe he had a direct hand in what happened.
His arrest has drawn particular attention.
Balochistan’s Chief Minister, Sarfraz Bugti, broke his silence with a firm message: the arrests have been made, and the investigation is moving forward without any leniency. “Our support is with the victims and their families,” he said in a public statement, adding that no one — regardless of power or tribal status — would be allowed to stand in the way of justice.
“The state stands with the victims,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Ulema Council stressed that no cultural tradition, tribal code, or family bond can ever justify such violence. “Even if a relative is involved, Shariah and the law demand accountability,” the council stated firmly.
Also read this: Balochistan Couple Murder Case: 11 Arrested Including Tribal Chief
