Honor killings persist in Balochistan, claiming lives and perpetuating a vicious cycle of violence rooted in tradition and cultural norms. Both men and women suffer from this heinous crime annually, with women disproportionately affected. Fathers, brothers, or family members commit these acts in the misguided belief that women have dishonored the family.
Triggered by factors like clothing choices, employment, education pursuits, divorce, or associations with men, these crimes reflect the deeply ingrained belief of “honor before everything else” in Baloch culture. Even experiencing sexual assault is considered a justification for honor crimes in Balochistan.
Despite efforts, the first reported honor killing in 2008 was followed by numerous cases. In 2022, 35 individuals fell victim, and eight more cases were reported in August 2023 in Balochistan. Many cases go unreported and uninvestigated, highlighting the urgency of addressing this issue.
While Islam condemns honor killings, the Balochistan government’s 2023 gender policy legislation hasn’t fully curbed this violence. Legislative actions alone are insufficient; a concerted effort is needed to break the tradition of honor killings. Recognizing that there’s no honor in such barbaric acts is crucial for individuals and the government alike.