Judge Links Noor Mukadam Murder to Increasing Trend of Live-In Relationships

Post by : Raina Nasser

Islamabad, Pakistan – A prominent Pakistani judge has indicated that the murder of Noor Mukadam, daughter of a former diplomat, is tied to the increasing prevalence of “live-in relationships” in contemporary society. Justice Ali Baqar Najafi of the Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) emphasized that these relationships often disregard societal norms, potentially leading to grave repercussions.

Noor Mukadam, aged 27, was tragically discovered murdered at the residence of Zahir Zakir Jaffer in Islamabad on July 20, 2021. The incident shook the nation, garnering extensive media coverage. Jaffer and two members of his household staff were arrested shortly after the incident.

In 2022, an Islamabad trial court convicted Jaffer of murder and imposed a death sentence along with a 25-year term for rape. His co-defendants, Mohammad Iftikhar and Jan Mohammad, received 10-year prison sentences each. The Supreme Court later confirmed Jaffer’s death penalty.

Justice Najafi, who is now presiding as an FCC judge following the court's establishment under the 27th Constitutional Amendment, remarked during the evaluation of Jaffer’s case that the murder underscores the risks associated with neglecting societal and legal responsibilities. He pointed out that “living relationships” contravene both civil and Islamic laws, indicating that such trends may have fueled the crime.

Noor’s tragic murder unfolded in the affluent Sector F-7/4 of Islamabad, making the case a focal point in ongoing conversations about social values, legal frameworks, and personal ethics in Pakistan.

The judge’s comments have ignited discussions throughout the country, concentrating on the ethical, legal, and social ramifications of live-in relationships, particularly within more conservative contexts.