On July 23, 2025, Zahir Jaffer, convicted for the brutal murder of Noor Mukadam, filed a review petition in the Supreme Court of Pakistan, challenging the upheld death sentence from May 20, 2025. Jaffer, found guilty of the 2021 murder in Islamabad, argues that the court overlooked his mental health evaluation and questions the authenticity of video evidence used in the trial. His legal team claims the CCTV footage, pivotal to the conviction, lacked proper verification and was not reviewed in court, raising concerns about the judicial process.
The case stems from the horrific murder of 27-year-old Noor Mukadam, daughter of former diplomat Shaukat Mukadam, at Jaffer’s residence in Islamabad’s Sector F-7/4. Evidence, including DNA reports and a murder weapon with the victim’s blood, confirmed Jaffer’s involvement in the crime, which involved torture and beheading. The Supreme Court previously upheld the death penalty for murder but reduced the rape sentence to life imprisonment, citing the Silent Witness Theory, which accepts reliable video footage as admissible evidence.
Jaffer’s petition emphasizes his request for a medical board to assess his psychological state, a plea previously denied. This follows his recent move to seek a presidential mercy petition, with Adiala Jail authorities requesting a medical evaluation to support a potential clemency appeal. Public sentiment, as seen on social media platforms, reflects frustration, with many viewing these actions as attempts to delay justice. Posts on X highlight ongoing demands for accountability, emphasizing the case’s significance for women’s safety in Pakistan.
The review petition has reignited debates about the judicial system’s handling of high-profile cases. While Jaffer’s legal team seeks a re-examination, Noor’s family and supporters continue to advocate for swift justice, rejecting any reconciliation efforts. The Supreme Court’s decision on this petition will be closely watched, as it could set a precedent for handling digital evidence and mental health claims in criminal cases.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, July 23rd, 2025
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