Legal Case Summary

Case Details
Case ID 14ecd0b2-7183-4ef7-b4cd-1317d744ced7
Body View case body.
Case Number Crl. Misc. No. 1416-B of 2007
Decision Date Mar 08, 2007
Hearing Date
Decision The Lahore High Court granted bail to the petitioner, SABIR HUSSAIN alias Pehlwan, who was involved in the murder of Muhammad Ashiq and Mst. Bushra Bibi in a case of alleged honour killing. The court found that the petitioner acted under extreme provocation after discovering his real sister with her alleged paramour at midnight, leading to a loss of self-control. The court emphasized the importance of considering the societal context and customs regarding honour in such cases. The petitioner was required to furnish bail bonds of Rs. 100,000 with one surety to the satisfaction of the trial court, which was directed to conclude the trial by April 30, 2007. The court acknowledged the sanctity of human life while also recognizing the cultural dynamics at play in this tragic incident.
Summary This case revolves around the sensitive topic of honour killings in Pakistan, where cultural and societal pressures often lead to extreme actions in the name of 'Ghairat' or honour. The petitioner, SABIR HUSSAIN, was accused of murdering his sister and her paramour after discovering them together at his home. The Lahore High Court's decision to grant bail was based on the understanding that the petitioner acted out of provocation, reflecting the intense emotions tied to familial honour. The court highlighted the need for a nuanced understanding of morality and legality in cases involving cultural traditions and the protection of family honour. This case underscores the ongoing struggle between progressive legal frameworks and deeply entrenched cultural norms in Pakistan, making it a significant point of reference in discussions about honour-related violence and legal responses. Keywords such as 'honour killing', 'bail', 'criminal law', and 'cultural norms' are vital for understanding the implications of this case.
Court Lahore High Court
Entities Involved Not available
Judges SARDAR MUHAMMAD ASLAM, J.
Lawyers Mr. Munir Ahmad Khan Zai, Mr. Ahmad Rauf, Mr. Azfar Ali Malik, Mr. Muhammad Mansoor Ahmad
Petitioners SABIR HUSSAIN alias Pehlwan
Respondents STATE
Citations 2007 SLD 3129, 2007 PLJ 577
Other Citations Not available
Laws Involved Criminal Procedure Code, 1898, Pakistan Penal Code, 1860
Sections 497, 302(c)