Lahore: A 19-year-old woman, Mehnaz Bibi, was allegedly tortured and strangled to death in Chishtian. Acting on the instructions of the Punjab Chief Minister, Chairperson of the Punjab Women Protection Authority, Hina Pervaiz Butt, sought a complete and detailed report from the Bahawalnagar DPO on the incident.
According to police, the victim’s in-laws initially attempted to portray the death as natural, but marks of strangulation on the neck and visible signs of torture on the body contradicted their claim.
A murder case has been registered at the Chishtian Sadar Police Station on the complaint of the victim’s father, nominating the husband, father-in-law, and brother-in-law as prime suspects. Police have arrested three key accused following timely action.
Hina Pervaiz Butt stated that violence against women and life-threatening attacks will not be tolerated under any circumstances, and every perpetrator will be brought to justice. She emphasized that Punjab follows a zero-tolerance policy against individuals who justify violence or murder by casting suspicion on a woman’s character.
She added that investigations in such sensitive cases will be transparent, merit-based, and free from any pressure. Complete legal assistance will be provided to the affected family, and they will not be left alone.
The Chairperson reaffirmed that ensuring the safety and protection of women is the foremost responsibility of the state and its institutions. “A safe Punjab for women is our commitment. Justice and protection will be ensured for every daughter,” she stated.
