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A tragic killing in Sukkur exposes the harsh reality of Honour-based violence, patriarchy, weak protection systems, and the continuing struggle of women for safety and justice
The tragic killing of Gulan Bharo in Sukkur, Sindh, is not just another crime report. It is a painful reminder of the deep-rooted violence faced by women in many parts of society under the false and dangerous concept of “honour.”
According to reports, Gulan Bharo was brutally killed by her own relatives when she tried to run away from a violent relationship. It is believed that Gulan Bharo had approached the authorities for protection, but her parents were said to have persuaded her back to their house, which led to her being killed on the grounds of honour. Her death is currently being considered a case of honour killing. The death of Gulan Bharo has once again raised awareness about the issue of violence against women in Sindh, particularly through the practice known as “karo kari.”
Sukkur, one of Sindh’s major historic cities, became the latest place where a woman lost her life not because of a legal crime, but because of a social mindset that still allows men to control women through fear, violence, and silence.
What makes this incident even more heartbreaking is the fact that reports suggest Gulan had already faced danger before returning home. Despite the threats, she returned, perhaps hoping for safety, reconciliation, or simply a chance to continue her life. Instead, her life ended violently.
The term “honour killing” itself is deeply misleading. There is no honour in murder. There is no dignity in taking someone’s life. These crimes are not about honour; they are about power, control, and patriarchy. In many such cases, women are punished for making personal choices, expressing independence, or simply being accused of actions considered unacceptable by family or society.
In Sindh and other regions, “karo kari” has claimed countless lives over the years. Although laws exist against honour killings in Pakistan, implementation often remains weak. Families sometimes protect the perpetrators, social pressure discourages witnesses from speaking, and victims are left without proper protection. As a result, many women continue to live in fear.
There have been several appeals by human rights activists and legal experts to implement strict laws and provide better protective measures for vulnerable women. But just stating is not sufficient. The real challenge lies in ensuring that there are strong legal intervention and awareness among society about education against all such traditions of violence.
Similarly, the overall status of women in Pakistan is characterized by these problems. According to the Global Gender Gap Report 2025 issued by the World Economic Forum, Pakistan ranked 148th among 148 nations on the global gender equality index, thereby becoming the lowest-ranking country in the world in terms of gender equality.
The reality is painful: many women still struggle for basic rights, freedom, and security. Cases like Gulan Bharo’s expose how dangerous life can become for women when society values so-called “honour” more than human life itself.
A difficult but important question must also be asked: if women started killing men in the name of “honour,” would society remain silent in the same way? Would these crimes still be defended through culture and tradition? The answer reveals the unequal standards deeply embedded in patriarchal thinking.
Gulan Bharo’s death should not become just another forgotten headline. Her story should force society to confront uncomfortable truths about violence against women and the failure to protect vulnerable individuals despite warnings and legal processes.
No society can truly progress while women continue to live under fear. Justice for victims is necessary, but prevention is even more important. Women deserve safety, not as a privilege, but as a basic human right.
The story of Gulan Bharo is not only about one woman. It is about a system that still fails too many women before it is too late.
syediram368@gmail.com
