The tragic murder of Noor Mukadam in 2021 shook Pakistan to its core, sparking nationwide outrage and demands for justice. After a high-profile trial, her killer, Zahir Jaffer, was convicted and sentenced to death—a rare moment of accountability in a country where many female victims are left without recourse.
While Noor’s case finally concluded with a sense of justice served, it also highlights a troubling truth: Pakistan’s legal system too often fails to protect its women. From honor killings and domestic violence to sexual assault cases that languish in court, countless women face a labyrinth of legal hurdles and societal pressures that silence their cries for help.
Legal experts argue that while Noor’s case was prosecuted with unusual speed and visibility—thanks in part to the unwavering support of her family and a highly engaged civil society—most cases never see such outcomes. Activists point to a lack of witness protection, patriarchal biases in courtrooms, and inadequate police response as key reasons why justice remains out of reach for many.
As the country reflects on Noor Mukadam’s story, it’s time to ask: Can Pakistan’s legal system evolve to truly serve and protect all women, regardless of their social status or the media attention their cases attract? Until then, the promise of justice remains fragile, and the fight for women’s rights continues.
