Islamabad: The Senate on Thursday passed a unanimous resolution condemning the murder of a couple in broad daylight on the orders of a Jirga in Balochistan, labeling it a so-called 'honour killing'. The resolution, moved by Sherry Rehman, declared the act a crime and a violation of human rights, the Constitution, and the laws of Pakistan.

According to Radio Pakistan, the resolution emphasized that such acts cannot be justified by cultural or traditional excuses under the pretext of "honour." It called for the immediate and transparent investigation of the recent killings, ensuring that all involved, including those who convened or sanctioned the jirga, are brought to justice.

The Senate recalled previous legislative reforms aimed at curbing honour crimes, highlighting the need for decisive actions against perpetrators. Despite these safeguards, the House expressed concern over weak ground-level implementation and justice being subverted, especially in cases targeting women.

The resolution asserted that honour killings are murders under the law and must be prosecuted accordingly. It urged law enforcement to adhere strictly to the Pakistan Penal Code in such cases and called for a review of enforcement gaps in existing laws by the Ministry of Law and Justice and the Ministry of Human Rights.

Public prosecutors and investigators are to receive training to treat gender-based violence and honour crimes as serious offenses. The resolution also advocated for awareness campaigns rejecting honour-based violence and reinforcing constitutional law over tribal norms.

The Senate further affirmed its commitment to upholding the rights and dignity of all citizens, particularly women.

In other proceedings, Senators Atta-ul-Haq and Dilawar Khan took their oaths as members of the Upper House. Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry addressed a notice regarding FC restructuring, confirming that recruitment procedures will remain unchanged and announcing the establishment of a reserve division comprising around four thousand personnel.

The Senate is scheduled to reconvene tomorrow at 10:30 AM.