A sessions court in Khanewal has awarded four death sentences to Abbas Amrana for brutally killing his mother and three sisters in the name of ‘honor.’ The convict has also been fined Rs. 2 million, while his accomplice received a prison term for aiding the crime.
According to court details, Abbas Amrana murdered his family members in a shocking act of violence that horrified the local community. The case, which drew public outrage, was presented before the sessions court after thorough police investigation and witness testimonies confirmed his involvement.
The court found the accused guilty on four separate counts of murder and sentenced him to death for each. His accomplice, Usman Chawan, was sentenced to five years in prison for helping Amrana plan and execute the killings.
The judge emphasized that such heinous crimes, carried out under the pretext of honor, not only destroy families but also challenge societal and moral values. The verdict was seen as a strong message against so-called honor killings, which continue to plague parts of Pakistan despite legal reforms.
Law enforcement authorities stated that the punishment reflects the severity of the offense and serves as a warning to those who misuse cultural norms to justify violence. Rights groups have repeatedly called for stricter enforcement of laws against honor-based crimes, stressing that no tradition should excuse murder.
Honor killings remain a grim reality in several regions of Pakistan. Despite existing legislation, many cases go unreported due to social pressure, fear of retaliation, or community silence. Activists argue that more needs to be done to protect women and vulnerable family members from such violence.
The Khanewal case adds to a long list of similar incidents that have sparked public debate on justice and accountability. Observers believe that consistent legal action and public awareness are key to ending this form of violence.
In another recent development, Pakistan’s security forces neutralised eight terrorists during an intelligence-based operation reflecting the country’s broader efforts to combat all forms of violence and strengthen the rule of law.
With Abbas Amrana’s sentencing, the court reaffirmed that the justice system stands firmly against acts committed under false notions of honor, reinforcing that no justification can ever legitimize the killing of family members.
